FLAMING tar barrels will be rolled down through the streets of Hatherleigh twice on Saturday for the annual carnival.

Early risers might like to catch the 5am tar barrel roll from the top of the town at Oakfield Road, the unlit barrels having been hauled up to their starting point by local children the night before (Friday).

The festivities then continue throughout Saturday with the Eggesford Hunt meeting in the square followed by an afternoon procession led by the carnival royalty, which sets off from Oakfield Road at 1.45pm.

Then the main procession – which attracts spectators from near and far – sets off from the top of Market Street at 7.30pm, led by the carnival royalty, with musical accompaniment from Hatherleigh Silver Band and other local brass bands.

The floats, walking exhibitors and bands will progress through Market Street, Bridge Street, South Street and the High Street and Hole Court, ending up at the market. The procession will be followed by a second run of flaming tar barrels from Oakfield Road to the market.

The evening will then continue with music in the square, with brass band music, samba and local bands Jealousy and the Cat and The Fireblockers, who will play until midnight. There will also be music in the square before the procession, from local duo Silk & Strings.

For those involved, the most tense part of the day will be before the evening procession when they are judged for the presentation of the Jacky Entwistle Cup for the float with the ‘most visual impact’.