HUNDREDS of Rossendale people have expressed an interesting in joining the walking Rossendale Carnival on June 24 -- but many have still to send confirmation!

Last year when the first walking procession was held 700 people took part and organiser Peter Gill, who was then working on behalf of Mid Pennine Arts was delighted with the success.

This year he is organising the event himself as Rossendale's Town Crier and he has visited groups all over the Valley drumming up support.

Now he is pleading for people to get their forms back to him as soon as possible.

He said: "Loads of people have said they want to join, but I need official notification so I can organise the parade and know how many goodie bags to order for children.

"I don't want to order 500 goodie bags and have 200 children -- or worse still order 200 goodie bags and 500 children turn up!"

In Bacup town centre there will be stalls from various local charities, a market, hopefully a car boot sale if Peter can find an organiser, a fun fair and local entertainers on a stand outside the Conservative club.

Rubic, which represents voluntary organisations will hold a marquee on the Co-op car park, and the fire brigade will be holding demonstrations.

Anyone who wants to join in the carnival procession, or find out where to pick up a form, can contact Peter on 07970 389830.