EVER-POPULAR Thornbury Carnival returns with a bang with some wartime icons taking to the skies in this milestone world war anniversary year.

The festival takes place on Saturday, July 5 and will feature some fantastic new attractions in the form of two iconic World War One planes.

This August marks 100 years since the outbreak of the First World War.

The RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Fight team will delight crowds by flying a Spitfire and Hurricane over the Mundy field in the afternoon.

Organiser David Goldring described the addition of the aircraft as a major coup for the carnival.

He said: “What a wow factor that is likely to have, pleasing so many of the older generation especially who will delight in the engine sounds of these planes, as well as their manoeuvrability, and also exciting the youngsters.”

Air attractions have featured in previous years, with a double fly past of the Red Arrows led by Thornbury RAF pilot squadron leader Jason Hawker in 2009.

This year will see a reprise of sorts with a Red Arrows flight simulator on offer. The simulator can take about 12 people at a time for the ride of their lives.

The carnival parade will start at 10.30am and promises to be larger than ever with up to 10 bands on the list, including two new inclusions, the Gugge 2000 Band from Bournemouth and the Street Heat Salsa Band from Exeter.

Mr Goldring added: “I would like to see all groups in the town and the surrounding areas take part in the parade, joining these energetic bands and other returning favourites to illustrate what a wealth of diversity there is in the area.

“ This is a great opportunity for clubs and societies and sports teams to add a new dimension to their annual calendar by taking part in a parade which sees crowds of thousands line the streets.”

Last year the festivities returned to Thornbury after an unexpected hiatus the year before. Problems with volunteer numbers and organisers meant the 2012 event had to be called off.

The committee is looking for parade participants as well as stallholders. For more details visit www.thornburycarnival.co.uk or email organiser@thornburycarnival.co.uk