CARNIVAL organisers in Kidderminster have chosen our appeal as the principal benefactor for this year's fun-packed event.

Last year, Kidderminster Carnival raised £5,000 for charity and although a lot depends on the weather, the appeal looks set to gain a substantial boost from the proceeds.

Colin Hill, chairman of the carnival committee, said: "The committee is pleased to be helping the Scouts. Rhydd Covert is an excellent facility which hundreds - if not thousands - of youngsters have visited over the years.

"So many children have enjoyed the facilities there in the past, we thought the people of the town, who give so generously to the carnival, would want us to help with the rebuild appeal."

The carnival will be held on Saturday, June 18 at Brinton Park, with the usual parade of floats through the town first.

Money is raised for charity through the parade's street collection, the sale of programmes door-to-door, profits from the day and pre-carnival events, including the popular duck race on the River Stour next to Tesco's.

Organisers are already appealing for stall-holders and entertainers to fill the showground and for organisations - commercial and voluntary - to enter floats in the parade.

"We would love to see more entries in the street parade," added Mr Hill. "It's great fun, there's a real sense of community spirit and, if groups can't manage a float, they can enter as pedestrians in fancy dress."

For more details and entry forms, contact Mr Hill on 01562 751634.