WEYMOUTH Carnival will be injected with a little Rio style this year thanks to a new community project.

Organisers of the Baianas Project are encouraging people of all ages to get involved in making colourful Brazilian carnival-style costumes and, if they want, to wear them in the carnival procession.

Julie Hursthouse, community development worker for the borough council, said the project is important for encouraging the community to join together, as well as providing opportunities to have fun.

She said: “We want to bring together people from all neighbourhood areas to share new skills in a fun and creative manner. The activities will be affordable and open to anyone.

“Activities should increase the sense of community cohesion and local pride in what has been achieved together.”

The classes, funded by the Dorset Community Found-ation, will be held on July 5, 12, 19 and 26 for two hours each.

The theme is ‘carnivals around the world’, which ties into the Baianas Project.

Julie said the name ‘Baianas’ comes from the tradition of honouring older people in carnival processions.

She said: “The elderly Baianas have their own traditions associated with their style of costume and dance, and we will create two groups, each with their own designs.”

“It will be quite spectacular and a lot of fun for the participants to come together and perform in this year’s Weymouth Carnival.”

Costume making is open to adults and families and costumes can be worn by people of any age in the carnival.

Those who attend don’t have to go to every class, but to get involved or make costumes, register your interest by calling Julie on 01305 838497.

Alternatively, you can email j.hursthouse@westdorset- weymouth.gov.uk.