POOLE is to have a carnival again next year.

Organisers have announced the bank holiday of Monday, May 26, 2014 for the procession, which will go from Sea View in Parkstone to Alder Road.

The revival of the town’s carnival tradition came after Ashley Road Traders Association in Parkstone entered a community float in last year’s Bournemouth Carnival.

They came away with top prize – and generated enough enthusiasm to get people in Poole talking about hosting a carnival for the first time since 2000.

Town crier David Squire, who has been involved with carnivals in the town since 1954, said: “The enthusiasm has grown and after 13 months of planning, the original constitution has been updated, an official bank account opened and a date and route finalised.”

He said application forms were now being sent out to people who might be interested in taking part.

Traders, including Waitrose and Tesco at Branksome, had lent their support to the initiative.

A carnival queen and two princesses were appointed earlier this year and will represent the town in the procession.

Mr Squire said: “What is urgently required now is more help. Local residents who may wish to help the committee, local businesses for much needed sponsorship, additional floats, walking entries etc.

“What we have is an opportunity for traders, residents and visitors to our great town to stage the carnival but to realise this dream we need the support now of the whole community.”

Anyone who can help should contact treasurer and procession organiser Trevor Hunter on 01202 670183 or mobile14me@virginmedia.com, or Mr Squire on 01202 241301.