DEVIZES Carnival fortnight kicks off this weekend with a family picnic in Hillworth Park.

Between midday and 4.30pm on Sunday, there is free music provided on the lawns of the council-run park, including the Jellyroll Boys, a six-piece jazz band who recreate the music of Art Blakey and Miles Davis.

Topping the bill are the Barflys, who are returning by overwhelming popular demand.

There are a lot of activities for children as well, with the Circus Maniacs providing circus skills workshops. There is also the bouncy castle supplied by the Gazette and Herald.

For those who don't come armed with their own picnic hamper, barbecue food and ice creams will be on sale, and there is also a licensed bar.

Carnival committee chairman Ian Hopkins said: "The family picnic is now firmly established as the opening carnival event. It is a very relaxing way of spending a Sunday afternoon in Devizes' most attractive park. The most important factor is that, like all the main carnival events, it is free."

The week continues with the Carnival Skittles Contest at the Wyvern Club at 8pm on Wednesday, August 25, the Carnival Cribbage Contest, also at the Wyvern Club, at 7.30pm on Thursday, August 26.

On Sunday August 29 Innes Sibun and Danny Williams entertain with their quintet at the Bear Hotel cellar bar from 9pm to 11pm.

Carnival Week begins on Bank Holiday Monday with the Devizes Street Festival. There will also be live bands, stalls and refreshments.

Tuesday, August 31 sees the baby show taking place at the Corn Exchange during the day, with line dancing from 7.30pm.

Wednesday, September 1, is when the confetti battle and fireworks take place from 7.30pm

Thursday sees a flea market in the Corn Exchange and a quiz night at the town hall, while, on Friday, the carnival live music gig takes place at the Corn Exchange from 8.30pm.

On Saturday, September 4, the carnival procession will leave from the Green at 6pm.