THIS summer's Swanage Carnival will have a safari theme.

Organisers hope participants in this year's procession will start planning their floats and costumes to make 2018 another huge success.

Carnival spokesman Becky Mack, last year's committee chairman, said: "Carnival is keen to inspire people young and old to get active and we have many events for participants to take part in, including a beach race, a road fun run, sea swimming, biathlon, gig racing and wacky races.

"We are also hoping to introduce a new sporting event for children.

"In attempt to get even more people active and involved in our events this year we will be launching details of our active events earlier than previous years.

"Please keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for details."

Last year's Swanage Carnival and Regatta Week raised £25,600 for 25 chosen charities.

Despite gale force winds and torrential rain, tens of thousands of revellers flocked to the Victorian seaside town for what is one of the biggest events of its kind in the south.

During the committee's November AGM, a new chairman, Maria Foot, and vice chairman, Darren Strong, were announced for this year.

Becky said: "Our theme this year is safari and we are hoping that you will come along and explore our carnival showground, rehydrate at our Carnival Arms waterhole and hunt our prizes in our many competitions and games.

"If you can help us with organising an event, or are interested in sponsoring an event to ensure the event goes ahead, please email our chairman Maria."

Email chairman@swanagecarnival.com for information.

This year's carnival and regatta takes place from July 28 until August 4.