A DAY full of community spirit and festivities awaits when Croft Carnival comes to the village on Saturday.

The parade of floats leaves The Plough in Kenyon Lane at noon with the walking parade joining them at the Memorial Hall at 12.25pm.

They will then make their way around the village arriving at the playing field in Smithy Lane for the official opening at 1.15pm.

A bumper afternoon is planned with a variety of stalls and fairground rides.

‘Mad scientist’ Professor Pumpernickel is back by popular demand and families can watch birds of prey displays and shows by the Galloping Acrobatics and Punch and Judy.

Then you can get in the mood to dance with Eclipse New Orleans Jazz Band and Tyldesley Brass.

The afternoon draws to a close with the customary novelty races and egg throwing competition.

This year’s carnival queen is Georgia Heyes from Culcheth High School.

The 15-year-old’s attendants are Olivia Bellas and Makenzy Haslam.

Hannah Garbutt, aged eight, from St Lewis’s School, joins Georgia as this year’s carnival princess and Popsy Walker, aged seven, from Croft Primary School is rosebud.

In a break with tradition it is an all girls event this year.

Crown bearers are Charlotte Hiley, aged six, and Evie Twist, aged five, who are both from Croft Primary School.

This year’s carnival ‘grandma’ is Croft resident Norma Wilkes.

Jayne Doody, a member of Croft Carnival Committee, said: “There is always a really great, fun filled atmosphere.

“We aim to offer something that will appeal to all age groups with the arena entertainment throughout the afternoon and the fun fair and mix of stalls available.

“Everyone is very relaxed with lots of families getting together with picnics while watching the entertainment.

“Many people who have left the area always make a huge effort to come back to Croft for carnival day and catch up with family and old friends. “It is definitely a highlight in Croft’s calendar.”