WEYMOUTH Carnival organisers have issued a plea for support as the summer extravaganza fast approaches.

Preparations are being made for the big day on Wednesday, August 20, which will include the world-famous Red Arrows, beach events, live music, games, the grand procession and fireworks.

The colourful evening parade, which will go from the Pavilion to Lodmoor, is one of the highlights with marching bands, fantastic floats and walkers.

For the first time in recent years, the procession route will not be lined with barriers.

Carnival chairman Elysia Munday, pictured above, said this is because there are no longer problems with coin throwing and children running out into the road to pick up money. It is also easier to evacuate people from the road in an emergency.

But volunteers are needed to man the route for health and safety reasons if there are no barriers.

About 70 people are needed to give up a few hours on the day and Elysia hopes the community can answer the call for help.

Volunteers, who must be over 18, will be given full training, including a free first aid course normally costing £120.

Elysia said: “We’re making a desperate plea as we need volunteers.

“We’re really excited about the big day and are planning a fantastic family-orientated carnival but as ever we need support from the local community to make it happen.

“We have cover for all other areas but we’re in need of static stewards who will be positioned at certain stages of the route to ensure the safety of spectators and those taking part.”

As well as the Red Arrows, who will be flying in at 5.30pm, crowds should watch the skies for aircraft from the Great War Display Team.

Down on the ground, Miss Weymouth Emma Whitbread will be crowned carnival queen in the morning and there will be activities on the beach and seafront throughout the day including beach sports and a sandcastle competition.

TS Pelican will be sailing into Weymouth and the BBC will be in town with its War at Home exhibition.

Visitors can also visit the food village on the harbour, and buy a ticket for the grand draw where they will be entered to be in with a chance of winning a new Citroen C1.

To help out at the carnival visit the Facebook page or email weymouthcarnival2014@outlook.com