THE organisers of a new summer carnival in Boscombe are calling on residents to come up with ideas for a theme.

Following on from the success of last year’s Christmas carnival, the parade, on July 20, will start at Pokesdown Railway Station and continue down Christchurch Road to the precinct.

It will be the first summer carnival in Boscombe for many years, and will run as well as the now-established Christmas parade.

“Preparations for the carnival are well underway,” said Amanda Catlin, who is helping to organise the event.

“We are asking people for ideas for a theme of this first summer carnival in some years.

“Some ideas to get people thinking are superheroes, masquerade, the history of Boscombe, the World Cup, English summertime and we are interested in anything people would like to suggest.”

Plans for the event include involving younger residents through arts and music workshops, giving the local community a chance to show off its skills in a forthcoming performance area in the precinct.

The organisers are still seeking grant funding to help organise the event, but have said it will be held even if the funding bid falls through, although they are appealing for sponsors to get in touch.

They hope the event will provide a boost to local businesses and encourage summer visitors to Bournemouth into the Boscombe area, while bringing the community in Boscombe closer together.

Contact neighbourhood warden Amanda Catlin on 01202 395512 or email amanda. catlin@bournemouth. gov.uk