YOUR carnival needs you – that’s the message from the organisers of the first such event in the town for 12 years.

This year’s Poole Carnival will take place in Parkstone on a bank holiday Monday, May 26, but more support is needed.

Organisers are inviting floats and walking entries but also need plenty of volunteer helpers including up to 80 marshals.

Town crier David Squire said it would be the town’s first carnival since 2002.

“The members of the carnival committee have been very busy for the last 18 months, trying to generate enthusiasm for this year’s event,” he said.

The procession will start from Sea View at 11.15am and head along Ashley Road to Alder Road and on to Branksome Recreation Ground, where there will be a day of fun activities including an arena, stalls and rides.

Mr Squire said: “The small but hard-working committee, comprising local traders, councillors, Poole’s tourism officer, Bournemouth Carnival representatives and others, are very keen to recruit up to 80 marshals for the big procession, and more committee members.

“More floats are also urgently required.

“Youth organisations are being asked especially to represent our town, including Scouts, guides or cadet groups.”

He called on businesses to consider promoting themselves by organising a float or providing a lorry for one of the growing number of organisations taking part.

There are up to 10 categories for entry, including walking groups.

“Winning entries in each group will receive a large trophy as well as rosettes,” said Mr Squire.

“More bands and majorette troops are also needed in addition to visiting carnival queens or princesses, who will also receive trophies.”

There will also be a carnival dance at the Sandbanks Hotel on Friday April 11, 7pm to 11pm, attended by the carnival queen, king and princess.

Visit the website poolecarnival.info for more information.