THE committee behind next month's Melksham Carnival and Party in the Park are still appealing for volunteers to help out.

The annual extravaganza, expected to draw in thousands of visitors, will take place on July 12 and attractions at the event in King George V playing fields will include a dog show, children's rides and live music.

However the committee of 15, who have been busy making sure things go to plan, said they are still looking for extra help on the day.

Committee member Terri Welch, who has been concentrating on the carnival parade, said the whole day has cost around £18,000.

She explained that money had come from local business sponsorship and the town council.

"The carnival parade has been running since the 1900s but we really need more people to help out next year," she said.

Mrs Welch said she and one other member had been responsible for making sure it went ahead this year, but said she feared it wouldn't continue in future years unless more volunteers came forward.

She said: "We need people to act as marshals and make sure everything goes to plan for these events."

The day of festivities starts at 2pm and runs until 10.30pm.

Mrs Welch said attractions will include three people in giant costumes, one being 17-foot tall, music from tribute bands, food, drink, a beer tent, a dog show and children's games, quad bikes and rides.

Local bands Switchback, Osakastripclub and Port Erin will be among those providing the music as well as two of the young singers from the TV programme Britain's Got Talent.

The carnival procession will start at 6pm from Cooper Avon Tires car park in Bath Road and runs through the town centre.

Melksham Metal Recycling will be this year's main sponsors after contributing thousands of pounds and the grand finale will be a fireworks display to music.

The dog show, which will begin at 11am and is sponsored by Beeches Veterinary Centre, has something to offer for all dog lovers.

Classes will include beauty competitions, best child handler, cross bread, rescue, sporting and non-sporting classes, a puppy walk and an open class.

Carola Cooper, who has been organising the dog show for the past four years, said there would be something for everyone including a display from the Cheshire Canine Display Team.

The dogs used in this display, which will take place twice during the afternoon, will include canine stars from TV and magazines.

There will also be an opportunity for people to take part in good companion dog award testing from 1pm.

Dog owners will need to demonstrate that their pets are well behaved and will get a certificate afterwards.

Entrance for classes is £1 and there will be rosettes and prizes for winners.