EXCITEMENT is building ahead of the revitalised Northwich Carnival this weekend.

The event has seen a huge amount of support after a rallying cry this winter, when committee numbers dwindled and the great tradition’s future was in the balance.

But resilient work from organiser Barbara Turner and a new wave of volunteers means the event will be back, bigger and better, on Saturday, July 6.

The parade will start from Howdens car park in Old Warrington Road at 1pm, following a route along Albion Road, Venables Road, Chesterway, Hayhurst Bridge and Castle Street towards Verdin Park.

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The celebrations will be officially opened by deputy Northwich Town Council mayor Linda Nelson at 2pm, ahead of a crowning ceremony at 3pm.

Pauline Little of LJ Little Dancewear in Castle will crown Keira McTasnay as queen, with a full retinue behind her.

The day will include the popular funfair – at Verdin Park from Thursday until Sunday – and a raffle, plenty of stalls, licensed bar, displays, tug-of-war and pony rides.

Visiting queens and guests of honour will also be in attendance.

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From 6pm, live entertainment will take to the arena in the form of The John Collins Band and a line-up of singers.

Barbara said: “At Christmas we had no hope for the future – there were two or three of us left and we couldn’t do it all on our own.

“We advertised asking for help, and help came forward.

“We are very grateful and thankful to all the local businesses who have supported us and given prizes this year.”

On Sunday, July 7, a car boot sale will take place from 8am and a dog show from 11am in Verdin Park.