THORNBURY Carnival, which takes place on Saturday, July 1, is gearing up to be a memorable day with a host of acts already confirmed.

Past favourites and local performers will sit alongside brand new signings including a show stopping finale act, top Queen tribute act The Bohemians.

Another new signing, an ensemble of seven musicians called Rock Pipes, will bring a unique fusion of rock music and bagpipes to the event.

Bristol-based Gypsy violin duo, Peroucki will also take to stage.

Gugge 2000 from Bournemouth, will share stage time with the McLennan Irish dancers and singer/dancers from Inspire Arts, and the ever energetic Street Envy.

The popular Femmes will appear once again in the Parade and on stage.

The Parade also has new content this year. The Dursley Carnival is making an appearance with a float, and Kite Flyers encountered at the Minchinhampton Festival will make their presence felt with an entry to highlight their field display later, joined there by a tethered hot air balloon.

Co-operation with other communities this year also includes a welcome to the Falfield Village Hall team who will be offering a refreshment service at the carnival’s committee tent in return for the use of loaned resources.

Another significant change has been the arranging of a contract with a local business to oversee the provision of all catering at the Carnival.

Carnival has never been about just Thornbury, but welcomes participation from nearby villages, bringing popular and successful attractions from their own events to enrich this already diverse and popular annual event.

So, Almondsbury, Olveston, Easter Compton, Severn Beach, Aust, Littleton, Oldbury, Rockhampton and Tytherington villages are all encourages to get in touch with organisers to ensure their presence.

Carnival organiser David Goldring said: "The Carnival is a big, one day event, diverse and inclusive in content and appeal, with something for everyone.

"It is the biggest outdoor event in the region, attracting probably 60,000 entrants during its eight years if existence. A mixed, family occasion with a general contents list which in itself is good enough reason to visit us."

  •  Visit thornburycarnival.co.uk for details of how to get involved and a full schedule of events.