MONTHS of preparation reaches a climax on Saturday when a bumper Northwich Carnival steps out to wow the crowds.

Thousands are expected to turn out to watch the parade and the rest of the entertainment at Verdin Park – and if you want to be part of the action, there is still time.

Carnival organisers say there are still plenty of opportunities to join the parade. All you need is a fancy outfit, some good footwear and a yen to party.

There are prizes for the best floats in the parade as well as for group and individual entries.

Highlights of the afternoon will be the crowning of carnival queen Ashleigh Ball by David Roberts, of Northwich-based bakers Frank Roberts and Sons, followed by some of the beefiest men in the country going through a host of muscle-rippling antics in the qualifying rounds of Cheshire’s Strongest Man.

The rest of the afternoon’s entertainment includes displays by the Wirral Pipe Band, the town’s very own award-winning cheerleading squad, Hartford School of Gymnastics, Elite and Quicksteps dancers, Simon the clown and all the fun of Manders’ Fair.

The carnival continues on Sunday with a car boot sale on the park from 8am onwards, followed by a novelty dog show, a novice Mr Strongman contest and the grand carnival draw.

More details are available from Barbara Turner on 01606 76113.

Admission to the carnival on Saturday is adults £1.50, children and senior citizens 50p. All the proceeds will go to local charities, with Northwich Infirmary being the main beneficiary.