THE future of Poole Carnival “hangs in the balance” unless more volunteers can be found.

The traditional parade was revived successfully in 2014, focusing on Upper Parkstone and Branksome.

Carnival day – the first Sunday in August – sees a procession of floats, marching bands and groups in fancy dress parade along Ashley Road and head for Branksome Recreation Ground.

The rec then features hosts family fun including stalls, entertainment, a funfair and flower show.

But the hard work of planning and staging the event has been left to a group of under 10 volunteers – and some have had to back out because of family and work commitments.

Carnival secretary Marion Le Poidevin is urging people to attend a meeting on January 31 to volunteer their services.

She said: “The carnival is very popular and it's great to see so many people enjoying all that's on offer during the day. But its future hangs in the balance unless more volunteers join the team to share in the work.

“If you're interested please come to the Victoria Cross on Ashley Road on Tuesday 31st January at 7.30pm. Bring your ideas and enthusiasm.”

Sponsors are also needed to ensure the future of the carnival.

Last year’s carnival almost did not happen after Poole council slapped it with fees of £4,300 for closing roads and another £1,100 for hire of Branksome Rec.

But under pressure from organisers and ward councillors, the borough relented and cut the fees to £2,352. It also admitted it had been wrongly charging VAT on its services to the carnival organisers for two years.

In the end, the event was dubbed the best yet and attracted thousands of people to watch the procession, supported by mayor Cllr Xena Dion and Dorset’s police and crime commissioner Martyn Underhill.

Street collections took place in aid of Gully's Place and the Diverse Abilities Lilypad Appeal.

When Poole Carnival was revived by Ashley Road traders in 2014, it was the first time in 12 years that the town had had the event.

More information about efforts to organise this year’s event can be found at poolecarnival.infoyear.