CARNIVAL fever is sweeping through a Hyndburn town for the first time in almost two decades.

A procession and celebration will be held in the streets of Oswaldtwistle as the carnival returns in June, after a 16-year absence.

A committee was formed after the idea was raised during a meeting of Oswaldtwistle Town Council.

One of its core members, Sarah Barton, said: “It has been reincarnated, like a phoenix out of the ashes. People who were part of the carnival as a child have grown older, and now they want to provide that opportunity for their own children.”

The 20-strong committee, which meets every month at the Civic Arts Centre, in Union Road, has organised a procession from Vine Mill, starting at noon on Sunday, June 22, and a family fun day at Rhyd-dings Park, from noon until 4pm.

Several fundraising events have already been held, and more are planned. Money raised will help provide more activities on the day.

Sarah added: “We are organising a big fun day, and there will be a raffle through schools and community groups. We are doing the Church and Oswaldtwistle Rotary Walk, and schools will be selling cak-es and holding non-uniform days.

“Schools, community groups, bus- inesses, churches, and parents are all involved. Carnival fever is sweep- ing through Oswaldtwistle.”

A prince and princess competition will be held in two age groups, from four to 11, and from 12 to 16. Entry is free, and photographs are being taken at Heartfelt and Cher-ished Photography, in Union Road.

People will be able to vote on Fac-ebook, or at the studio, with judges choosing the winner from finalists shortly before the carnival. For an appointment, call Joanne on 07595 993008.