A DOUBLE bill of fun and entertainment is lined up as part of Kidderminster's carnival's capers, ahead of the big day, which takes place on Saturday, June 19.

First up will be the town's annual duck race, on the River Stour at Tesco's bridge, on Saturday. That will be followed by the carnival organisers' first jazz barbecue, being held at the Swan Centre on Friday, June 11.

It is hoped the fund-raising duck race will generate up to £1,000 for this year's chosen charity, Wyre Forest Age Concern's minibus appeal.

Ducks - priced £1 each - will be on sale in Kidderminster town centre on Saturday, with the race scheduled to begin at 4pm.

The prize for the owner of the winning duck will be two adult tickets for the Severn Valley Railway.

The runner-up will earn entry for a car-load of four people to West Midland Safari Park, while the third placed competitor will receive a £10 Tesco voucher.

Carnival chairman, Colin Hill, said: "We hope to build on the success of our first duck race, which proved a big hit with people of all ages last year."

Some sizzling food and music will be on the menu for the jazz barbecue, which swings into action at 8pm.

The music will be provided by the Sauce City Jazz Band, from Worcester, with barbecue food available, as well as a licensed bar. Proceeds from the event go to the minibus appeal.

Mr Hill said: "We have held a carnival concert in the Town Hall over the last few years, which was well received.

"But we thought it was time for a change and are keeping our fingers crossed that this event proves popular. It should be a great night with some excellent music."

Tickets, priced £10, are available from the Swan Centre management suite.