THE organisers of Lymington Carnival are looking forward to sharing an important message on the environment while taking a trip down memory lane to 1946.

This year's parade takes place on Sunday, with more than 20 floats, bands and dance groups in the procession, which will set off from Avenue Road and perform a loop of the town, including the high street.

The theme for the carnival, which is organised by Lions Club of Lymington & Brockenhurst, is 'Saving Our Planet'. This has seen local businesses and organisations putting their creative talents to the test.

Alongside the topical floats, the parade will see the return of many carnival queens from previous years.

Lion’s Club member Ian Duncan said: “This year’s theme was suggested by our headline sponsor Colten Care. Although a very topical subject, we were initially a little hesitant. However, our entrants have certainly embraced the spirit of ‘Saving Our Planet’ and have used their imagination and flair. We have everything from an ‘Upcycled Wedding’ to ‘The Lost Jungle'.

"It was also a good opportunity for us to invite and ‘recycle’ previous carnival queens. The star of the show will be the 1946 deputy carnival queen, who is now in her 90s.

"We have been amazed by the response from previous queens and hopefully more will join the throng.

"We just hope everyone comes to support us along the route and brings some money. It is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to join in the fun and help us raise funding for the many deserving causes in our community.”

Sponsorship from Colten Care, as well as Lymington Town Council, Hampshire County Council, Barry Frampton Ltd and Central Southern Security Ltd, helps cover the costs of the carnival, while all donations from the street collection are awarded back to community groups and initiatives by the Lions Club, who have organised the event for almost 25 years.

The procession leaves the town hall car park in Avenue Road at 11am after judging takes place from 10.15am. From there it will travel on Southampton Road, Queens Street, St Thomas Street, High Street, Gosport Street, Cannon Street, North Close, East Hill and back to Avenue Road.

Trophies will be awarded to the various class winners outside the town hall at 1pm.

For more information about Lymington Carnival, visit

lymingtoncarnival.co.uk