PREPARATIONS are underway for this year's Bewdley Carnival and organisers are appealing for new members to step forward and help make the event in June the best yet.

Attractions already lined-up for carnival day on June 9 include clowns, a funfair, stalls, food and, for the first time, a dog display team, featuring rescued animals.

As usual, carnival day will be preceded by a week of festivities including a firework display, fancy dress and quizzes.

However, one attraction missing on the day will be the Meredith Green Band following the disbanding of the group.

Last year saw nine floats take to the streets in the 34th parade in the history of the town attracting townspeople and visitors to the area.

Muriel Smith, who is helping organise this year's carnival, said: "We're always seeking new members with fresh ideas and people to help during carnival week and on carnival day."

She added people could still come forward to book stalls for the event.

Bewdley Carnival Association which met on March 14 heard the programme for carnival day and the week of events was going well.

The town council has agreed to fund the firework display and several field events have already been booked.

The next meeting of the association will be held on Wednesday, April 11, at the Cock and Magpie, Severnside North, at 7.30pm.

Anyone wishing to help on carnival day can attend or telephone Angela Pitt on 01299 402723.

Anyone wishing to enter a float for the land parade can call Tony Rhoden on 01299 403800.

To reserve a stall on the carnival field telephone Muriel or Felix Smith on 01299 877667.