A ONCE popular tradition is being revived with organisers hoping to draw on the enthusiasm generated through last year’s summer of celebration.

Choose Woodbridge has revealed plans to re-start the town’s carnival.

Members feel the time is right to revive the once popular annual celebration - continuing the momentum from last summer when a number of events brought the community out in force.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Olympic Torch procession and the Tour of Britain cycle race all proved popular and a variety of events were held with great success.

Chris Harrold, chairman of Choose Woodbridge, said they felt the time was now right to revive the carnival, which was stopped around 30 years ago because of waning interest.

“A lot of our neighbouring market towns have a carnival and we thought that it was about time that we tried again,” he said. “Woodbridge is a fantastic place and we’re looking forward to making it happen.

“Although Choose Woodbridge is organising it we would like everyone to be involved - it promises to be a great day of celebration and we’d like as many groups and organisations as possible to have a float.

“We had a great year last year with events for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Olympic Torch procession and Tour of Britain. We want to draw on that enthusiasm and carry that momentum forward. We all had a fantastic time and there was a great buoyant atmosphere - there’s no reason why that shouldn’t continue.”

Mr Harrold said they hoped the carnival procession would start at Melton playing field before heading to Market Hill, the Thoroughfare, Cumberland Street and the riverside, with it finishing at Kingston Field where there will be traditional games.

“It promises to be a great day for all the family,” he continued. “It’s not just the parade but there will be stalls and activities as well. We want it to be more than just a one off - it will hopefully become a regular annual event once again. It will be great for the people who live here but it will also attract a lot of visitors to the town.”

The carnival will be held on Saturday, July 6 and organisers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who might be able to provide a lorry or flat bed truck that could be used as a float.

If you would like to help with any aspect of the event or would like more information contact Mr Harrold on 07708 953489 or at Chris.Harrold@choosewoodbridge.co.uk.