VERWOOD residents need to pull their fingers out or risk losing their carnival after 82 years, say organisers.

The carnival committee is busily preparing for the festivities this May, but chairman Adrian Read says more people need to take part in the parade if it’s to come back in 2012.

The fun day raises around £3,000, which is given out to causes in the town.

Mr Read said: “If people don’t get more involved we will have to stop. The committee works so hard and then at the end of the day you find yourself wondering if it’s been worth it.

“Like anything else, people just can’t be bothered and kids are more interested in their computers. Last year we had two vehicles and a few walking entrants – there were more bands than floats.

“I feel like I’m banging my head against a brick wall.”

Some building firms won’t hire out lorries because of health and safety, and now only a handful of girls turn out to audition for the carnival queen and princesses, he says.

Mr Read, who’s been on the committee for around 16 years, has booked arena events to perform at Fuzzy Bit in the hope of saving the tradition.

“Visitors get stuntmen, comedy clowns, trapeze artists, falcon displays and marching bands for £3. It’s £1 for children. Where else do you get all that for your money in this day and age?”

Auditions for the carnival royalty take place on Sunday, March 20, at the Guide Headquarters in Manor Road.

Interested in helping out with the carnival? Call Mr Read on 01202 826908.