AS evenings start to draw out and early daffodils signposting that winter will soon be a fast-fading memory, much of the planning for this year’s Farnham Carnival is already taking shape.

“Carnival 2016 is all about fantasy, drama and colour,” said carnival chairman Colin Jordan. “The theme of ‘Disney, Superheroes and Fairy Tales’ provides all those thinking of taking part with the widest possible scope for their creativity. It offers the opportunity for imaginations to run riot, as children of all ages can recreate their favourite make-believe characters from books, films or TV.”

This year’s carnival procession and fayre in Gostrey Meadow will take place on Saturday, June 25. Once again it will be run by the Farnham Lions and The Hedgehogs and provides both local charity organisations with the opportunity to thank the people of Farnham for enabling them to provide essential support for local good causes throughout the year.

The procession organisers are keen to attract entrants from all parts of the Farnham community.

“Participation is free and is open to schools, charities, businesses and any other local groups,” confirmed procession co-ordinator Alan Hunt, “and provides a unique shop window to promote your organisation and gain visibility and support for any current projects or initiatives you have.

“So, anything from walking groups and decorated vehicles, classic cars, vintage fire engines and buses to farm tractors and diggers will be more than welcome,” he added.

Special awards and certificates will be presented to the most outstanding entries and, as in previous years, all proceeds collected during the procession will be shared between the participating schools, youth groups and charities.

All hopes are for a repeat of last year’s spectacular weather, which brought large crowds to both the procession and fayre. Gostrey Meadow was full of visitors throughout the afternoon and evening, enjoying the music and entertainment put on by local performers. In addition to the wide range of food and drinks stalls, beer and tea tents and charity stalls, 2016 will also see a much-expanded children’s play area, with entertainments providing a welcome diversion for the younger generation!

Colin is keen to emphasise the importance of the generosity of local organisations and individuals.

“Carnival would not happen without the support of Farnham Town Council and Surrey County Council, as well as the Farnham Herald, Farnham Chamber of Commerce, Farnham Institute, Weyfest and other local businesses,” he said. “Equally, volunteers from our own Lions and Hedgehogs groups and across the Farnham community also prove invaluable in helping organise and run the day.”

Anyone interested in taking part in the carnival procession or taking a stall in Gostrey Meadow should visit the carnival website at www.farnhamcarnival.org.uk. The organisers would also like to hear from any businesses who would like to contribute to sponsoring the event and help contribute to the running costs and, as part of this, are planning to increase publicity opportunities for all those providing financial support.

Look out for the ongoing Twitter and Facebook feeds which proved so popular last year, generating interest from hundreds of followers.

Colin continued: “Summer is closer than you think, so start planning and let us know how you can help make Farnham Carnival 2016 the best yet.”