WITH the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Lions Club of Tavistock thought it only right that this year's carnival theme for the procession on Saturday, July 21 will be 'Great Britain'.

Now is the time for everybody to start planning their entry for the procession — participants can enter any one of the five main classes, the first two being artistic and humorous where the prize money is £100 for first, £70 for second and £50 for third.

The other three classes are for walkers only, the first being for groups numbering no more than six, which is ideal for individuals, families or groups of friends.

The second walking class is for groups numbering more than six with the third being for any number of walkers accompanying a decorated vehicle.

The prizes for Class 1 are £40 for first, £30 for second and £20 for third and for the other two classes, £50 for first, £40 for second and £30 for third.

All entries are also judged for their interpretation of the theme for which there is a prize of £100 and a trophy and all class winners are eligible for the top prize of £150 and trophy awarded to 'Best in Procession'.

All participants, apart from trade, receive a donation from the street collection, which last year was just over £2,145, so the financial reward can be extremely good, especially if they are one of the major prize winners.

Those organisations which have taken part in previous years will receive an application form in the post or they can complete the form shown here.

The programme for this year is almost complete and carnival week will start on Saturday, July 14 with the ever popular baby show in the morning and the summer sounds concert in the evening in the town hall, featuring several local groups.

A much expanded fun day in the Meadows takes place on the Sunday and other events during the week include a folk night in the Tavy Club, the pavement artists competition, a concert in the church, town races organised by Tavistock Athletic Club and the all-day fair in Bedford Square on Carnival day, followed by the procession starting at 6.30pm.

The Lions believe they have put together a programme that has something for all ages and club members are looking forward to an exciting and a great fundraising week.

Full details of the carnival week programme will be announced shortly but in the meantime, anyone requiring further information can contact the Lions Club on 0845 8334807 or visit the website http://www.tavistocklions.org.uk">www.tavistocklions.org.uk.