Several carnivals across the region have folded in recent years due to lack of enthusiasm and entrants, and organisers of Bridport Carnival are calling for the support of the local community to ensure their annual event does not suffer the same fate.

Bridport is known as Dorset's eventful town and its many quirky, creative and alternative festivals, with Bridport Carnival adding to this programme each year.,

But it is down to residents and organisations of Bridport to enter the carnival procession to ensure it continues to thrive in future years.

Joining in with carnival can give participants practical skills and experiences they willl remmeber for life, from organising and planning their entry, to painting and decorating, sewing costumes and working out routines.

It's also a lot of fun and helps to develop team building and leadership skills, as well as being a a great way to promote your local club, charity or business for free!

A bit of friendly rivalry is being encouraged this year, with the introduction of awards that can be won by carnival procession entrants for Best Pub/Hotel, Best Sports/Dance, Best School/Youth Organisation, Best Club (adult), as well as Best Overall, Best Costumes and Most Original Entry.

There are many classes that can be entered – you do not have to enter a big float, there are classes for walking entries, non-motorised entries, mini floats, mobility scooters and supporters who just want to join in but not be judged.

If you are planning to enter a larger float, Cains Farm have offered use of their curtain siders.

Entires are now open for Bridport Carnival, with the procession set to take place on Saturday, August 19 and the popular torchlight procession on Sunday, August 20.

For more information and entry forms, visit the Bridport Carnival website https://bridportcarnival.co.uk, or email [email protected]

Entry forms are also available at Bridport Tourist Information Centre.