THE carnival in Royal Wootton Bassett will fill the streets with colourful displays and family activities for the 47th year.

Preparations for the 2019 carnival, which started in 1972, are in full swing for this year's event on May 18.

This year will see the return of the famous procession with carnival entrants given the chance to win one of the coveted awards – the Diamond Jubilee Trophy for the overall winner and the Spirit of Carnival cup.

The cup is in memory of founder George Scarrott Senior and goes to an individual who has consistently embodied the spirit of the carnival.

Highlights include The George Scarrott Fun Fair, which is at Showfield from Wednesday, May 15, to Sunday May 19, a classic car display on the High Street, and an extended indoor bowls pit to bring younger and older generations together.

Town councillor Sue Hughes said: “It’s so central to the town’s culture, it’s one of those things that brings the community together to share some time and work together. I’ve lived here for 15 years and we’ve gone every year.”

The procession starts from Marlowe Way at 4.30pm and be led by town dignitaries and carnival royalty, before concluding at the Showfield at around 6pm.

To be considered for the carnival royalty roles, which includes page boys, butterfly prince and princesses, kings and queens, families need to go to the Angel Pub on the High Street at 2pm on Saturday, April 27.

Road closures will be in effect as the procession moves through the town, including Marlowe Way, from the junction at Swindon Road with Stoneover Lane, down to Nore Marsh Road and Station Road between 2.30 and 6pm.

The procession will reach High Street at 6pm. Entry forms are available at the Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council Office and at facebook.com/woottonbassettcarnival.