Film theme set to inspire Bexhill Carnival

The procession, leaving Turkey Road, Sidley, at 1pm and travelling through the town to the Polegrove Recreation Ground, promises to be a special spectacle to behold.

With the theme of 'Films' to inspire float builders and fancy dress revellers, a wide range of movie stars and titles are expected to be featured in the colourful costumes and tableaux on display.

Reigning supreme over proceedings will be 2010 Carnival Queen, Fern Denney, Deputy Queen, Lauren Gander and Carnival Princess, Jade Simple E'nnion.

The parade will go via Ninfield Road, Holliers Hill, Chantry Lane, High Street, Upper Sea Road, Buckhurst Road, Town Hall Square, Sackville Road, Western Road, Devonshire Road, West Parade and Brockley Road.

Throughout the procession, volunteer street collectors will invite donations to the three chosen charities: Little Common Playgroup, HomeCall and Children With Cancer Make a Wish.

On show at the Polegrove will be the 1066 Gymnastics Academy, the Robertson Pipe and Drum Academy,Senlac Highsteppers, Hastings Hospital Radio Roadshow, Mr Bumble, a 1066 Falconry Display, Bexhill 14 Army Cadets and a fun dog show.

But for those who can't wait for tomorrow's excitement, the Polegrove has plenty in store tonight with live music from the Fabulous 6Ts and a firework finale, all compered by David 'Del Boy' Byrne.

'Gates open at 6pm for the party starting at 7pm, and admission is 5 for adults, 2 U-16s or 12 groups of two adults and two children U-16.

In situ will be Shaw's travelling carnival funfair, presented by fourth generation showman Nicky Shaw and his wife, Christine, both major sponsors of Bexhill Carnival.

The Shaws are credited with having helped save the Carnival from extinction in 1996 when the necessary funding had all but dried up.

Other leading sponsors include White's Brewery, Smith & Humphrey Ltd, Drays, Bexhill Lions' Club and the Old Town Preservation Society.

Carnival committee chairman Nim Whitmarsh said: "We now provide a carnival we believe to be one of the best in the south, and this year, we hope, will be no exception.

"Come along, enjoy our events and, most of all, enjoy yourselves."