PREPARATIONS for the highpoint of Radcliffe's social calendar are well underway and this year organisers of the town's carnival are determined to pull out all the stops.

Rather than simply one day of celebrations, the 2001 carnival will be spread across both Saturday June 2 and Sunday June 3.

And for the first time in years the vintage car rally and display will be back, starting at 11am on the Sunday.

Carnival chairman Mr Ray Vevers said: "Last time we had a vintage car rally was in the 1970s so please come along and support us. And let's hope the weather will be kind to us this year after last year's wash out!" The carnival parade starts at 2pm on the Saturday and will make its way along Unsworth Street, Lowe Street, Ainsworth Road, Water Street, Blackburn Street, Pilkington Way, Stand Lane, Church Street, Rectory Lane, Spring Lane, Water Street and Unsworth Street. These roads will be closed from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

The fun begins at 10am on Saturday with a car boot sale and a display by majorettes.

Silcocks Fair will spring into life at 11am, running until 10pm and from11am to 6pm on Sunday.

And at 4.30pm on Saturday local carnival royalty will take their places for the opening ceremony and the parade of queens.

And don't forget there will also be a fancy dress competition, other displays and a wide variety of stalls. All proceeds will go to local charities.

Bury South MP Ivan Lewis said: "The carnival is an occasion to celebrate the many individuals who do so much to enrich our local community. Young people and senior citizens working alongside each other in an atmosphere of fun and mutual respect."

For further information and details about the carnival call Mr Vevers on 797 4475.