A LONG-established street parade is being revived as part of Kidderminster Carnival - three years after it was scrapped.

Rising insurance costs, marshalling difficulties and lack of interest in dressing up large lorries into colourful floats led to the demise of the procession, which had followed a route from the town centre to the Brinton Park showground.

An alternative foot parade around the park itself failed to capture much enthusiasm and organisers hope that a shorter route from the heart of the neighbouring residential area will create more support.

The new-look parade will set off from Lister Road, where pedestrian entrants can congregate on a large grassed triangle, heralding the start of the carnival, on Saturday June 21.

There will be £25 cash prizes for the best motorised vehicle - which can be anything up to a small seven-tonne flatbed lorry - best group and best individual.

Entrants will be asked to assemble at noon, ready to set off at 12.30pm, travelling to the park via Poplar Road, Stretton Road, Greatfield Road and Sutton Road, arriving in time for the presentation of prizes on the bandstand at 1.15pm Carnival chairman Colin Hill said: "We were concerned that after trying to run a foot parade in the park, it hadn't really taken off.

"Although the street parade had dwindled in size, people do miss it and so we have decided to revive it, albeit on a smaller scale.

"The route passes through the heart of the local community - where much of the carnival's support comes from."

Mr Hill hopes there will be more pedestrian entries, as the length of the route makes it suitable for all age groups to walk than was possible along the original route, which took nearly two hours to complete.

"Small floats, trikes and motorised vehicle can enter - the wackier the better," added Mr Hill.

There will be no entry charge and individuals, charities, community group, pubs, clubs and commercial organisations are invited to join in the fun.

Entrants can email joannebowket@gmail.com for an entry form or just turn up on the day.