LIPHOOK is gearing up for its biggest event of the year as the annual Liphook Carnival returns this Saturday.

Preparations are being put in place ahead of the day, which will raise money for many good causes.

Lots of charitable groups benefit every year from the funds the carnival raises, including the Peak Centre Trust, 1st Liphook Scout Group and Liphook Guides.

It promises to be an emotional night for Liphook Carnival committee chairman Karen Feeney, who is stepping down after this year’s event. Karen will be replaced by Sally Cameron at the next annual general meeting.

Karen said: “This will be my 11th year of chairing the carnival and I am very happy that we have now found somebody to take over the reins.

“While I am still looking after this year’s event, Sally has already made a considerable contribution to the carnival with her enthusiasm and drive to find new sponsors and muster up more support from the community and local businesses.

“It’s time for a new chairperson to take the carnival forward and ensure it carries on for everyone in our village and Sally is the perfect choice to do this.

“We are, as always, looking forward to seeing our favourite faces on carnival night but would also love to welcome new participants, so if you feel you are ready to come along and take part, this is the year to do it.

“All the details of how to get involved on the night are on our website if you need any information. No booking is required, you just dress up and turn up.”

All of the floats taking part in this year’s carnival need to be assembled in the procession on Longmoor Road by 5.30pm. Judging of the floats, push and pull vehicles and adult fancy dress will be at 5.45pm with trophies for the winners.

Push and pull is a class for non-motorised vehicles, for example bikes, carts and wheelie bins. Float classes this year are: children’s floats, adult floats, pubs and clubs, and trade floats.

Entertainment will begin in the square at 6.15pm, and Paralympic athlete Olivia Breen will crown the carnival queen, Charlotte Moore, in the square at 6.45pm. The attendants are Jessica Manns and twins Emily and Kate Coombs.

The procession will move off at 7pm, and return through the Square at 8.30pm before the traditional bonfire and firework display is held at Radford Park.

Visit www.liphookcarnival.org.uk for more details.