PREPARATIONS are stepping up ahead of this year's Worcester Carnival.

The carnival will take place in less than two weeks, on Saturday July 7 and signs have now been put up around the city.

Carnival president councillor Alan Feeney is looking forward to putting on a 'fantastic' day.

He said: "We will have a large programme of events and entertainment.

"It takes a great deal of time and planning and we are now in the process of finalising everything."

The carnival is set to start from Pitchcroft for the first time in more than 20 years before making its way around the city.

The event returned to the city last year after an absence of 24 years.

On the day, there will be a funfair, live entertainment, trade stalls and the grand parade through the city centre.

Two stages at Worcester Racecourse and Cathedral Square will showcase local talent.

Worcester Play Council has been chosen as the carnival’s chosen charity.

Last year, Headway Worcestershire, Acorns Children’s Hospice and New Hope Worcester each benefited from bucket collections of more than £500 on the day.

Children are also being encouraged to get creative and design a flag to carry in the carnival parade.

For more information contact info@worcester-carnival.co.uk.

Organisers are still looking for volunteers to help on carnival day.

To express your interest contact volunteers@worcester-carnival.co.uk.