THORNBURY Carnival is set to return with a bang this year, with organisers promising the best show they have ever had.

One of the most popular events on the summer calendar, the carnival takes over the town with a fantastic parade and day of wall-to-wall entertainment on the Mundy Playing Fields on Saturday, July 7.

This year’s Carnival theme is “1918-2018 Then and Now”, marking the centenary of the end to World War I, with the chosen charity Phase Thornbury, which offers support for Thornbury teens and their families.

In light of the historic theme, leading the ever-popular parade will be the military marching band of the Royal Corps of Signals, who will be followed by two samba bands, classic cars, military vehicles and a wealth of walking groups  - including Thornbury WI and the Townswomen's Guild who will be parading dressed as suffragettes.

Setting off from Castle School at 10.30am, the procession will march down the High Street signalling the start of the Carnival, which will be on the playing fields from midday.

The Carnival’s two stages return, with the main stage having been renamed ‘The Horizon Stage’ in recognition of the continued support given each year by the energy firm.

The parade’s live musical presence will continue on the field with 1940's harmony trio The Femmes, bagpipers Rock Pipes, and Thornbury's own TMTG and BALPA all making a return, as well as dance performances from Street Envy and the Frampton Footwarmers jazz group.

In order to entertain as many people as possible through the day, headline act The Take That Experience will split their set into two, performing mid-afternoon and then to send the carnival out with a bang.

There will also be plenty of action from the Tigers Motorcycle Display Team from Portsmouth and Somerset stunt rider Joe Peace, plenty of military vehicles, hopefully a display of ground to air missiles, and the Welsh Horse Yeomanry making a welcome return.

There is also plenty for the younger generation with a photo booth and the return of the popular fun fair as well as a range of stalls and attractions, including climbing and caving walls, face painting and Punch and Judy.

For the adults, there will be three fully-stocked bars, provided by The Wheatsheaf, Hawkes House and The Swan.

“We probably have the best arena programme we have ever had,” said carnival committee chairman Paul Caddick.

“Our aim to provide a local show for local people, giving a great day out for a reasonable price and we hope that the town continues to support us. All they have to do is turn up and enjoy the entertainment.”

He added: “We want to say a big thank you ahead of the Carnival to everyone who has helped, however little, and to Horizon, Thornbury Town Council and South Gloucestershire Council for their continued support.”

Tickets will be available on the door, costing £7 for adults and £4 for children.

There is still time for any walking groups who want to take part in the parade to get in contact. To find out more, email parade@thornburycarnival.co.uk.