The UK could become slightly smaller next month, as villagers in Box prepare to vote on whether it should declare independence and go it alone.

The fiercely-contested debate between the Box Independence Group and the Box Unionist Movement will be the centrepiece of this year’s Box Revels event on May 26, with campaigners taking to hustings to argue both sides.

Revels committee member Iain Kemp said: “Both sides have started setting out their manifestoes, which include passport control set up on the A4 and a mandatory 20mph speed limit through the village.

“We saw the debate going on in Scotland about independence, and we thought why should they have all the fun? We have a lot of talent in Box, and we think we could make a go of it as an independent nation if the chance came our way.”

The annual village fun day takes place on the recreation ground, and will also include tug-of-war, the traditional inter-pub cricket contest and a fancy dress parade.

Mr Kemp said: “Monday will have a car boot sale, which will be the basis of an independent Box economy, and children at our local schools have been designing a flag for an independent Box.

“The whole point is to get people in and around the village hanging out with friends and raising a bit of money for local groups and causes.”

For more information about the event, see www.boxrevels.co.uk