Carnival on land and water

THOUSANDS of people are expected to line the streets of Portishead for the town’s annual carnival parade.

The procession, which starts at the Lake Grounds and ends at the flower show field, takes place on June 17.

Preparations for this year’s carnival are well under way and dozens of bands and acts have been booked to perform on the show field.

The procession promises to be bigger and better than ever, with themes and entries being closely guarded.

Organisers are also asking everyone in the town to attend the parade in fancy dress.

A spokeswoman for the event said: “It will be amazing to see people all dressed up and the carnival will really put Portishead on the map.

“We’ve put a lot of work in over the last two years to make the carnival really special and if everyone dresses up it can only make it even more spectacular.”

Teams of adventurous sailors will be taking to the water at Portishead Lake Grounds at 2pm on July 16 for a giant raft race.

 The annual event raises money for the Portishead Lifeboat Trust and there are categories for teams of children up to the age of 12, teams of children up to the age of 17, and adults. A series of heats leads to a grand final before everyone gets a soaking in a famous free-for-all at the end.

The setting is ideal - close to the seafront, the picturesque Lake Grounds also boasts a play area and café.

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