by Dominic Webb

THE COUNTDOWN for the much-anticipated Thornbury Carnival has begun.

There are just over two weeks to go and preparations are already well underway with a brand new music event to mark the relaunch of the summer extravaganza.

The Later @ Thornbury Carnival concert will follow on from the activities of the day on Saturday, July 6 and provide a chance for visitors to enjoy a live performance from Bristol band The Firebirds.

Carnival chairman Dan Budd said: "I was really excited to confirm the involvement of The Firebirds, not just because they are a really popular and talented group, but as they were very much part of my childhood."

Mr Budd met lead singer and guitarist Jim Plummer when the pair were just 12 years old, and was greatly influenced by him and his brother John.

He reconnected with the musical duo, whom he had not been in touch with since 1986, when he asked them to appear at the 2013 carnival.

Organisers have set out to wow the crowds and make up for lost time, after the annual festivities were cancelled unexpectedly last year, with a packed programme throughout the day.

The McLennan School of Irish Dancing will kick off the summer carnival followed by the Bristol Scottish Dancers, a Zumba group and the King Edmund Acrogymnastics Club among many acts.

The Thornbury Swing Band, Town Band, Wotton Silver Band and Nailsworth Silver Band will provide entertainment while the Thornbury Musical Theatre Group will add a soupcon of theatricality to the extravaganza.

A brand new Youth Zone, complete with a skate ramp, DJs and guest riders, will also feature at the event.

"I wanted to ensure that this year's carnival was going to be able to offer something fun and engaging for everyone in the community, with a focus this year on getting it right for young people," Mr Budd added.

Thornbury Carnival will run from 11am to 6.30pm followed by The Firebirds' performance.