Last Year's event Ref: 71274-39PREPARATIONS are well under way for this summer's Wroughton Carnival. Organiser Sue Carter has coordinated the event for the past 10 years.

And she says this year promises to be the biggest and best yet.

The fun and games take place on July 9 and villagers are being asked to do their bit to help make the day a success.

Stewards are especially needed to marshal the procession that starts at 2pm.

In keeping with carnival tradition, two lucky pupils from Wroughton Junior School will at the front in a top-of-the-range sports car. They will be escorted by local sea cadets.

The school will vote for their favourite Prince and Princess to ride in the car at a disco to be held in June.

Tribute bands and stalls will add to the party atmosphere.

The main action starts at noon in Weir Fields.

Mrs Carter, 49, of The Pitchens, said it's an ideal opportunity to meet the neighbours and raise community spirit.

"The past 10 years have been brilliant," she said. "It's grown beyond our expectations.

"Last year we had around 4,000 people on the streets. Already we've got the Swindon Royal British Legion Corps of Drums, Britannia Majorettes and T S Resolution sea cadets signed up for the procession.

"The bands will include a Queen tribute band called Mercury and a Status Quo tribute called 12 Quo Bars.

"A female duo called Faze 2 and a band called Ode & the Bebops will also be performing.

"We're currently looking for more floats so if any one is interested they should get in touch now.

"This event is run entirely by volunteers and we're also keen to hear from potential stewards."

Tickets cost £2. Under 14s and over 60s are admitted free.

All profits are split between Wiltshire Air Ambulance, Macmillan Cancer Research and other local good causes.

Last year more than £7,000 was raised.

More information, including the procession route, can be seen on the carnival website: www.wroughtoncarnival.com

Anyone wanting to volunteer can call Mrs Carter on 01793 812406.