LEIGH Carnival organisers are appealing for help to make the second summer festival even bigger and better.

The event, revived last year after a gap of two decades, will take place once again at Bedford High School over the weekend of July 17 and 18.

Fun on the field will include It's A Knockout, karate display teams, live bands and Morris dancing with the highlight the big parade on Sunday.

Heats to decide the 2004 Carnival Queen and her entourage will take place on April 25 from 12 noon at Atherton Sports and Social Club, Formby Avenue.

Entries are invited for this year's royalty parade and include contests for Pageboy (aged 4-7), Rosebud (5-7), Princess (8-10), Junior Queen (11-14) and Queen (15-25).

Rules state that contestants must be in daywear (no jeans or trainers), and be available for the carnival parade on the July 18.

For more details contact Mrs Elsie Middlehurst on 01942 605272.

Anyone willing to offer their help alongside the committee, Leigh Rotary and Leigh Lions Club, should call 01942 510660 or 01942 603563.