LEIGH Carnival is back in a big way -- 19 years after the bunting was rolled away for the last time.

It is hoped that the three day family event at the end of July will bring back a sense of community spirit and pride to the town.

Now the organisers, who have won a £40,800 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to help stage the fun event, are appealing to businesses, organisations and individuals to pledge their support through time or sponsorship.

The idea to reinstate the carnival came from committee chairman Terry Middlehurst who approached other Leigh businessman, and organisation has been underway since last August. The president is Leigh MP Andy Burnham.

Celebrations will begin on Friday July 25 with a canal rally at Hall House Bridge near Bedford High School where live music will be performed in a marquee.

On Saturday there will be numerous events on the school field including the judging and crowning of the carnival queen competition, again with live music from Robbies Angels, a Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue tribute band.

The highlight of the weekend will be the colourful parade on Sunday leaving the Spinning Gate Car Park for the Manchester Road high school where the floats will be judged among numerous other entertainments.

Procession

Anyone interested in joining the procession of decorated wagons, morris dancers, bands and queens will be welcome, including walkers and vintage vehicles.

The theme will be "Heritage" and the commitee is willing to make a donation towards decoration.

Teams are also wanted for an "It's A Knockout" special -- a professional version of the show -- which it is hoped will raise funds for Wigan and Leigh Hospice. Funsters from business, pubs, clubs or organisations will be welcome.

Bus operator Jim Stones has agreed to provide a free bus every half hour from Leigh town centre to the school.

A committee spokesman said: "Everything is set, now all we need is the young people of Leigh to support the first big carnival, which we hope will become an annual event."

For further details or entry forms contact Mike Canning on 01942 672796 or publicity officer Walter Brown on 01942 510660.