CARNIVAL organisers are appealing for new committee members to come forward with fresh ideas amid concerns over the event's finances.

Northallerton Carnival, which takes place on Sunday, July 13, has a long history of giving local charities the opportunity to raise cash from stalls and providing family entertainment.

Northallerton Mayor and carnival chairman Cllr John Forrest said since moving the carnival to the High Street from Applegarth Park several years ago they have enjoyed greater success because it is no longer hidden away.

The carnival includes about a dozen stalls from local charities including Herriot Hospice Homecare, the Friarage Hospital Scanner Appeal and Northallerton Lions Club, as well as fun fair rides, a stage featuring performances from dance troupe AJ Academy and band Crash Bang Wallop.

Cllr Forrest said: “We hope to provide something for all the family and we have tried to make some changes this year to keep attracting people.

“We are excited to have a marching band from Derbyshire, The Ambassadors, performing for us at 3pm in the High Street, and again at 4.30pm in the Applegarth.

“One of our committee members knows the band and suggested we try them so we hope it will be something that works and we can build on in the future.”

But Cllr Forrest said finances are always a worry – with the expense of the road closure at £700, and first aid provision and insurance on top of that totalling about £1,500.

He said: “We do get a grant from the town council but the rest we have to raise.

“We hoped to attract some commercial stalls this year to help boost our finances but none have come forward. It will be something we need to pursue in the future because otherwise we could be in trouble.”

He added that the committee of less than ten members is constantly looking for new members to inject enthusiasm and new ideas to keep the carnival going.

“We need new members and volunteers to help us on the day to set up the stage and stalls.

“But for the future we need sponsorship in order to keep it going. I believe it’s great for the charities and also for the town – it brings people together and entry is free.”

The carnival starts at 12.30pm in the High Street. Anyone interested in joining the committee can contact johnforrestone@yahoo.co.uk