A POPULAR carnival has appealed for more volunteers as planning for this year’s spectacular goes under way.

Burnham Carnival is one of the highlights of Maldon district’s cultural calendar and brings hundreds of visitors to the town each year.

But committee members still need more volunteers or September’s event could be at risk of folding.

Carnival member Wayne Martin said: “We have some new members but desperately need more help.

“We are also looking for local businesses to sponsor events and acts like the fancy dress and baby show rampage.

“The carnival is an important part of the town and it would be a shame to lose a 100-year-old event.

“We need volunteers to help the running on the day, putting out barriers and manning road closures, plus lots more.

“The carnival is important to the town as it brings in lots of revenue to the businesses and is a tradition we don’t want to lose.

“Unfortunately, if things continue the carnival could be at risk. We would love businesses to get involved to make sure the carnival continues as it also helps them out as well.”

Terry Martin has been appointed chairman and Ivor Boyer is now vice-chairman.

Planning has only just started but acts already booked include Graeme Matthews from Britain’s Got Talent and E&E Dance and Epic Dance Academy.

Burnham mayor Wendy Stamp said: “The carnival, now over a century old, is perhaps Burnham’s most popular annual event, attracting visitors from all round the district and beyond.

“I always enjoy the creativity shown by local clubs, families and businesses in the floats they create and the way they decorate their shops.

“It is a whole day of fun – in fact, with the funfair, the carnival atmosphere lasts four days.

“The fact it’s an illuminated procession running in the dark makes it even more special. It is a great community event that is loved by pretty much everyone in the town.

“It’s a tradition all generations hold close to their hearts.”

The next committee meeting is on Tuesday, March 3 at Burnham Town Council at 8pm.