Date is fixed for a return of the Bognor Regis carnival

Final plans are underway to hold a community fun procession. It is likely to take place on June 27.

Bognor Regis Town Council's events officer, Sue Holmes, is making the arrangements to bring back one of the town's most popular occasions.

"I think people liked the carnival," she said. "I've had a number of requests asking to bring it back. People like taking part in events such as the carnival and it gives groups the chance to work towards something and show off what they can do," she stated.

It was in July 2005 when the final carnival was held. The then organisers at Bognor Regis Lions Club decided to scrap the occasion because the amount of red tape needed to stage it, coupled with rising costs, led them to believe it was no longer worthwhile going ahead.

The numbers taking part in the parade along the seafront and through the town centre, always held on the last Saturday in July, was also dwindling.

Thousands of spectators, however, still lined the route of the procession in its final years to enjoy watching the flamboyant costumes and creativity on display.

The demise of the carnival has left a large gap in Bognor's summer events calendar. It is set to be filled by town councillors agreeing to spend up to 10,000 to bring back the colour and vibrancy of an afternoon of community enjoyment.

By holding the occasion before the school holiday, it is hoped to tap in to the network of schools and organisations such as Scouts and Guides around the town.

Mrs Holmes said the aim was to involve schools and community groups and create a spectacle for those watching.

The new-look carnival would also link in with the cultural theme for the build-up to the 2012 Olympics in London. She has gained inspiration from Ryde Carnival.

The town on the Isle of Wight has turned around its declining annual day with a series of initiatives. She has met representatives there. They are also willing to lend their expertise on the spot in Bognor.

But Mrs Holmes warned that anyone expecting to see a procession of the big floats, which used to dominate previous carnivals, was likely to be disappointed.

The emphasis would be on walking and cycling entries, with just a few floats likely subject to their availability and insurance coverage.

"Some groups would have found filling a float daunting," she explained. "But making some nice bright costumes and getting on a bike is a lot more achievable for everyone."

Training days are to be arranged to provide ideas to potential participants about how to decide themes for their entry and create costumes to illustrate that.

She is holding talks with the police to agree the route for the 2009 carnival. The starting and finishing point will be the traditional location of West Park.

The possibility of sponsorship from Butlins, which has expressed an initial willingness to get involved, and other businesses will also be explored by Mrs Holmes.

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