MARCHING bands and float owners left devastated by the collapse of this year’s Worcester Carnival are being invited to take part in the Stourport event next week.

Organisers of Stourport Carnival are putting the finishing touches to their popular annual bash, which will be held on Saturday, September 3 with the parade starting at 12.30pm.

But they said they could have room for bands and people who had worked hard to create floats for Worcester Carnival to join them in Stourport instead.

Worcester was due to hold its event on Sunday (August 28) before the shock announcement on Wednesday, August 24, that the carnival would not be held at all due to “operational circumstances”, leaving participants, residents and charities set to benefit disappointed.

The carnival committee apologised and revealed that changes in personnel had been made and that the event would return in 2017.

Pete Roberts, of Stourport Carnival, said: “We know the amount of time, effort and hard work that people put into carnivals and understand why so many people who were due to take part in Worcester will be disappointed.

“But we still have a few places left for our carnival next weekend, particularly for marching bands, and anyone who was due to be at Worcester is welcome to contact us.

“We might be able to help ensure all their efforts have not been wasted and they can add something to our event.”

People can find out more and get entry forms from Pete’s Prints in Bridge Street on 01299 826930 or Mantons Jewellers in the High Street on 01299 822886.