THIS year’s Melksham Carnival is being held one month earlier than last year, on Saturday, June 29, for security reasons.

Carnival organisers hope the new date will encourage more people to take part, particularly schools, groups, individuals and other organisations, as it is taking place during term time.

A spokeswoman said: “The committee member who provides security, road closures etc couldn’t do July this year.

“As we couldn’t run the carnival without him, we thought it best to bring it forward rather than back. Hopefully it might encourage more schools and clubs to join in as it will be before the summer holidays.”

Last year’s event was held on July 28 but organisers say that entry forms for this year’s carnival procession must be completed by Monday, June 17. Entry for the procession is free of charge.

Entry forms can be downloaded on the carnival website www.melksham carnival.co.uk.

Organisers are also looking for local business that would like to advertise in this year’s carnival programme or would like to sponsor the carnival with much-needed funds.

“It’s a great way to show your support for the town, as well as an ideal advertising opportunity. Melksham Carnival brings the whole town together and is loved by so many people.

“Support and funding from local businesses is the only way we can keep this tradition going.”

For more details on how to help, please message the committee at info@ melkshamcarnival.co.uk