WORCESTER'S Carnival has been given the kiss of life after volunteers came forward to put on a day of entertainment.

Carnival organisers were forced to scrap the city's annual procession this year because of a lack of floats, but it will now be replaced by a gala day on Saturday, July 7.

Twenty local pop and rock bands, an illusionist and dancers have already signed up to for the Pitchcroft event.

Organiser Trevor Smith said the Carnival committee was spurred on after an overwhelming show of support.

"When it was cancelled we thought 'nobody wants this anymore', which was very sad," he said.

"But to our surprise people started offering support, so we decided a gala day would keep the idea alive."

Organisers hope this year's event will be a successful stop-gap and a carnival procession can return next year.

The Reality Group, which owns GUS and White Arrow, has sponsored the gala day and two of its employees, Shaun Halliwell and Bob Matthews, have recruited bands.

Two stages are due to be set up on the racecourse where performers, including Columbus Minus 7, Tree Frogs, Jamie Knight, Spoonfed and The Whole Kobudle, will entertain the crowds.

Other attractions include an illusionist, who will make a motorcycle and its rider disappear, Appalachian Step dancers, clowns, a gyroscope, trampolining and Punch & Judy.

Mr Smith said a grand firework finale could be arranged.

Anyone wanting to set up their charity stall or trade stand should call 01905 358348.