The seaside spectacular that is Weymouth Carnival returns tomorrow and organisers say this year is set to be the best yet.

The much-anticipated charity event kicks off with a variety of activities for residents and holidaymakers alike including live music, beach activities, sporting events and a food village.

Tomorrow night’s torchlight procession will see a thousand flames carried across the sand from the Pier Bandstand to Alexander Gardens in a procession led by Mayor Kevin Brookes and the incoming carnival royalty.

Chairman of Weymouth Carnival Ryan Hope said: “The torchlight procession was a first for the carnival last year and it is steadily becoming one of the favourite attractions.

“Due to health and safety we are only allowed a 1000 torches and online sales have been going absolutely amazing, so I would really urge those you desperate to take part not to leave it until the last minute to get your torch.”

The two-day event will continue into Wednesday with the crowning of the Carnival Queen at 10am and the New Vic on the Esplanade.

In the afternoon, the Battle of Britain Memorial flight will take to the skies at 3pm followed by the renowned Red Arrows at 5.30pm.

The air displays will be followed by the Weymouth and Portland bikers convoy across the Esplanade before the evening carnival procession makes its journey from Weymouth Pavilion to Lodmor car park at 6pm.

Cllr Hope said: “It is set to be another fantastic carnival and hopefully we should raise some money whilst we’re there. I would ask visitors coming down to please donate £1, whether that’s buying a programme, a raffle ticket, or just putting a £1 in the donation box.

“The carnival relies on the generosity of the public, local business and holiday makers, without it, it can’t continue.”

So far, the weather forecast looks set to stay dry which will make for a busy two days as thousands are predicted to visit the town.

“The carnival wouldn’t be the same without a little shower at one point throughout the day,” said Cllr Hope. “But, whatever the weather it won’t stop it, it is full steam ahead for the carnival and we need people to get behind us and support it.”

President of Weymouth and Portland Lions Club Roger Hogbin has been busy preparing his float for this year’s procession.

He said: “It has taken weeks and weeks to get together. We have a small lorry with lots of little children dressed as lions and Julie Storey’s dancers performing behind us.

“It’s been quite hard work really.

“On the one hand, you have people like Ryan doing all the organising and then you have people all around town building their floats and getting ready, it is a real town event.

“We’re really looking forward to it. It’s going to be the best carnival to date, year on year it just gets better and better.”

Weymouth Carnival will take place on Tuesday, August 15 and Wednesday, August 16 from 10am to 10.30pm.

For more information about timings, band listings, and road closures visit www.weymouthcarnival.co.uk