NOW summer is nearly here, organisers of Preston's spectacular and long-running Caribbean Carnival are expecting this year's event to be the best yet.

And the popular carnival, held every year since 1974, could get an extra boost this year, as Granada TV and BBC Music Live have both expressed interest in covering the event.

Clarita Stemarathe, of the Nguzo Saba centre, who help with the organising of the carnival, said: "The festival is very important. It has both historical and social connotations, and it helps bring people together from other parts of the community to celebrate the Caribbean culture."

Hundreds of visitors descend on Preston every year to see the exotic floats tour through Moor Park, Deepdale and Ribbleton.

And the parade is so popular that last year's turn out was huge, despite Preston North End's Premiership bid taking place the same day.

And this year the parade, on Monday, June 3, from 1pm, is likely to be extra special, with a lottery grant for £2,214 being given to The Sunbird Carnival MAS Band to help them develop costumes and Caribbean culture.

Clarita said: "It is also a form of expression with music and food, and it's trying to teach people about the Caribbean culture.

"It's also important for the younger generations who were born in this country, who might not know about the African culture, to be proud of where their people come from."

And the 2002 carnival is set to be the biggest yet. After the traditional parade, a new stage will house a brand new part of the event, on Moor Park.

The stage will ring to the sound of all types of music, from dance, DJs and rapping to soul, gospel and calypso.

So far 24 local groups have expressed an interest in taking part, and groups from Manchester, Huddersfield and Liverpool have also made enquiries.

A public meeting is being held to discuss the carnival. To attend, go to the Jalgos Sports and Social Club, Rose Street, Preston, on Sunday, April 21 from 4.30pm.