THE streets of Winton will be full of colourful floats and talented performers when a popular annual carnival returns at the weekend.

Thousands of people lined the pavements to watch last year’s parade, with just as many people expected to turn up for this year’s event.

The lively procession features local schools, community groups, charities, businesses, and even the emergency services.

Marching bands will play their tunes and youngsters will perform dance routines as they make their way along Wimborne Road before arriving at Winton Recreation Ground.

A prize is given out to the ‘Best in Parade’ and, last year, it was awarded to children from Winton Primary School who impressed with their Flintstones-themed attire and dance routine.

Each year a carnival queen or king from the local community is also nominated.

Last year, 92-year-old Sheila Sandison was chosen as the carnival queen by staff at Bluebird Care Bournemouth. Sheila led the carnival procession in a Rolls Royce.

At the recreation ground, people have traditionally enjoyed a funfair, food stalls, games and live entertainment throughout the afternoon.

Only a small group of people organise the successful event each year. In 2018, a committee group made up of six volunteers organised the carnival.

Committee chair Michelle Carroll said it had been the “best parade ever”, and organisers will aim to make the carnival an even bigger success this year.

The event was founded by Anson Westbrook, who was a councillor for the Winton East ward.

Now in its 14th year, the carnival has continued to grow in size.

Anson passed away in October 2012, just as planning for the 2013 carnival had begun.

The committee made the decision to continue the event for the community, and a lone piper played on stage that year in tribute to Anson.

Michelle said previously that organisers are “passionate about making Winton Carnival a real community day for the people of Winton”.