THERE is more than ever on offer at this weekend's Crewe Carnival thanks to months of detailed planning.

Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council has ploughed more than £12,000 into a bid to make it the biggest and best event.

Although the traditional procession through Crewe will not be taking place, organisers have more than made up for it with a packed Saturday programme of entertainment and displays.

It is the 104th Carnival to be staged in Crewe and it is now billed as the biggest free event in South Cheshire.

Council spokeswoman Rachael Perkins said: 'A Carnival has been taking place in Crewe from as far back as the 1800s.

'Originally staged at Crewe Hall, it was staged to raise money for the South African War Memorial.

'The parade through the streets of Crewe has traditionally been a big focus of the festival and used to last for more than three hours.

'This year, due to the closure of Merrill's Bridge on West Street for essential repairs, the parade has been postponed and will be set to return in 2007.

'Instead, we have squeezed more fun in Queen's Park during Carnival Saturday to ensure it remains one of the best days out on the town's calendar.'

Crewe-based theatre company, Pickleherring, will lead Around the Park in 80 Minutes, a parade based on Phileas Fogg's great expedition.

With African drums, bright costumes and enchanting story-telling, it will end with the release of 80 balloons.

Arena entertainment will include everything from Tanzanian acrobats and local dancers to trampoline stars and a high speed 'Comedy Car Spectacular' followed by motorcycle stunt riding.

The weekend's festivities draw to a close with a stunning display of piloting skills, some 500ft above a skyward-looking audience.