Party-time starts in Maldon this weekend, when the carnival at Promenade Park kicks off on Sunday, promising to be a week of spectacular entertainment and fun-filled activities for all the family.

President of the carnival, the Mayor of Maldon, Paul Rew, said: "As town Mayor, I have seen how much pleasure carnival week brings to both the people of the Maldon District and the visiting Mayor's of London Boroughs."

On the first day it will be the animals on parade in the carnival dog show, and this will be followed by the official crowning and opening ceremony, performed by Councillor Roy Pipe at 2.30pm.

Mums and dads will be able to enter their children in the baby show on Wednesday, and then it will be time to get in a tangle on Thursday when 10 wrestlers will be taking part in solo matches, followed by a grand knockout final with all competitors in the ring.

Jean Haylock, the carnival's assistant secretary, said that the carnival week is a big thing for the people of Maldon.

"When our carnival court travel across the country, they have people asking them when our carnival is, which shows that we visitors come from all over. This is a big thing for the people of Maldon and it has become like a tradition,' she said.

The grand finale takes place on Saturday August 7 with the carnival procession, which leaves Cross Road at 2.15pm and a firework display at 9.45pm.

The Mayor added: "The last day of carnival week always shows an outstanding display of community spirit, with a procession parading through the town and a magnificent firework display at the Promenade Park. A week in Maldon will have been enjoyed by so many, residents and visitors alike."

Carnival programmes are available from outlets in the town priced £1.

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