AFTER 19 years Redditch Carnival is finally back - and is taking place tomorrow.

The much loved event, which this year sees it go back to its more traditional format including a town procession, is tomorrow Saturday, September 28 and people are being urged to show up and show their support.

The parade will be feature Caribbean dancers (and even dinosaurs) and starts from Edward Street car park at noon.

From there it heads to the bandstand where there will be live music and dance acts from a number of groups, as well as a bouncy castle, food stalls, and games and activities.

There will of course be Wilson’s Fun Fair, which has supported the carnival since the very beginning - believed to be 1926.

Chairman of the carnival committee Amanda Haden, instrumental in its return, said: "Many of us in Redditch remember the bygone days when we had the carnival in town every year with the floats, along with Wilson’s Fun Fair to bring along additional entertainment for everyone.

"This year, we are starting with a walking parade to give a taster of what we hope to bring in future years.

"Due to time constraints, we are unable to do the floats, but we would like to bring them back for next year."

"This year’s parade includes the Xtreme Mas Caribbean Carnival Dancers all the way from Leicester with their fabulous costumes, the Oya Batucada Samba Band, and giant dinosaurs.

"We are pleased to announce that we are doing something new this year. We will have a stage area set up by the old Smallwood Hospital where bands such as Abba Tribute, Save the Date, Olivia’s Dancers, Sub Zero, It’s a Sign Choir, Keri Whip, The Violettes, Indigo Arts, and the Forro Tempo Band, will be performing.

"There will also be performances inside St Stephen’s Church."

Amanda added: "We need the people of Redditch to join in and take part, as it can’t happen without you.

"Please come along and watch, and if you would like to join the parade (there is still time), please contact me on amanda2531@outlook.com. Similarly, if you would like to join the committee to plan for next year’s event, please contact me."

Wilson’s Fun Fair started yesterday Thursday, September 26 and is promising to be the biggest yet.