THOUSANDS of people are expected to line the streets of Corfe Mullen on Saturday for the town's annual carnival.

The carnival has been a major event within the village since 1967 and this year's event marks its 50th anniversary.

A major part of the celebrations every years is the street procession, which sees dozens of floats, bands and entertainers walking through the village.

Around 300 young people take part in the procession with many of them spending weeks in advance preparing materials and making the decorations for their entries.

The procession headed by the Carnival Princess and her attendants will leave Ivor Road at 1.30pm to travel the 1.5miles to the events ground which this year is located at the recreation ground in Badbury View Road.

There will be a rolling road closure during the procession along Ivor Road, Springdale Road, Wareham Road and the B3074 Blandford Road. The road closures are expected to end by 3pm.

Carnival chairman David Mills said: "More than 4,000 people attend the carnival every year helping to raise thousands of pounds for local charities and good causes with more than £40,000 being raised in the past decade.

"This year's event is supporting the Julia’s House Children’s Hospice which is located in Corfe Mullen.

"I'm extremely excited that this year the main events ground has been move into the larger area at the recreation ground.

"The move has provided the committee with the opportunity to introduce various new activities including a Carnival Real Ale bar and a performance stage for youth and community groups to showcase their work.

"Also due to the financial support we have received from numerous local business, small traders and members of the community, many of the children's activities this year will be provided for free or at reduced cost."

At the recreation ground there will be a wide variety of entertainment and fun activities for all age groups taking place from 1pm to 5pm.

There will be plenty to entertain the adults as well as children, with over 50 stalls and static displays ranging from woodcraft skills to vintage vehicles to local community groups selling a wide range of products.

For more information go to corfemullencarnival.com.