The carnival committee is embarking on bringing an even bigger and better carnival to the town this year - but it needs your help.

Members of Bridport Carnival Committee said they ‘survived a steep learning curve’ last year, with thanks to Bridport Town Council and town surveyor Daryl Chambers, to bring ‘one of the best carnival parades seen for some years’ and a week of activities.

A spokesman for the committee said: “The crowning of the carnival princess in front of the arts centre on the Monday proved to be a popular way of launching the carnival week. The change of venue to the Beehive for the darts competition was a resounding success, which will hopefully carry on going from strength to strength. The bingo was equally well attended and enjoyed by all participants.

“All being well, there will be a musical addition to our carnival week, in the form of a ‘battle of the buskers’ competition, and even a teddy bears picnic, weather permitting.

“In the carnival parade, there will be changes to more appropriate classes, such as decorated, non-motorised, trolley, cycle, pram and mini-floats. There will also be and introduction of 10 trophy prizes, which it is hoped will encourage a healthy competition, especially between local clubs, schools, pubs and tradesmen, whose absence from the carnival in recent years has been noticed.”

The committee is also calling on people to help during the carnival and torchlight events.

The spokesman added: “There is only so much that 10 volunteers can do, whilst still doing their day job.

“If you are thinking that you would like to put something back into the area you call home, then how about offering some help. The committee is currently looking for an assistant secretary and treasurer. Otherwise, there are two other ways you can help - helping to marshal and helping to steward the parade.”

The marshal duties include putting out road cones and road closure signs before the carnival and torchlight parade, help staff road blocks and assist people around them and help pick up cones and road closure signs after the events.

Steward duties include securing the band and lorry area, ensure the safe passage of the carnival and torchlight parade, keeping the public safe and lining the routes.

Money raised through the carnival are divided between beneficiaries, which are local worthy causes or organisations.

If you would like your group to be considered as a beneficiary or would like to volunteer to help, email joycedunford@yahoo.co.uk or visit bridportcarnival.co.uk

This year's carnival will take place on Saturday, August 22.