WORCESTER Mayor Allah Ditta is right to suggest a revival of Worcester's carnival.

As an ex-carnival chairman myself I would like to make the following points.

Carnivals are a wonderful way of spreading happiness. Often, whole families are involved in the preparation of floats. The event would engender pride in Worcester City. Sadly however, carnivals have been in decline ever since the last recession. The companies which supply the floats, are not as well off as they used to be.

What is needed is for Worcester City Council to wave a magic wand. It would cost them peanuts - just a small grant to each haulier who provided a lorry. There could be payment for any insurance premiums if applicable.

Councillors could judge the floats, or perhaps present a special cup for the best float. It would mean a day out in the summer for them, without politics!

Another point is that manning a float often entails a lot of hanging around before the procession and many hours are needed.

With so many young children involved, why not hold the parade during the afternoon instead of the evening? In my experience, Bromsgrove traders never complained about lost trade, because the carnival always brought many more people into the town.

PETER JONES,

Ex-chairman Bromsgrove Carnival,

Worcester.