VALUABLE cash prizes are on offer in Tavistock this summer, for groups and organisations who throw themselves into the carnival spirit and enter this year's procession.

Plans for this year's carnival are well underway and the Lions Club, which organises the week's entertainment for and on behalf of the town, is hopeful that the cash prizes on offer will encourage more organisations and individuals to enter the procession on July 17.

This year's theme of 'Let's Celebrate' gives a wide scope for those wishing to take part, so the Lions are expecting a great variety of interpretations.

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 one 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 all class winners are eligible for the top prize of £150 awarded to 'Best in Procession'.

All participants receive a donation from the street collection which last year was just over £2,500, so the financial reward can be extremely good, especially if you are also one of the class winners.

'Best in Procession' last year was Tavistock Primary School, which received £350, and Tavistock Scout Group won 'Best in Theme' and received £200 in total.

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.

In the meantime, anyone requiring further information can contact the Lions on 0845 833 4807.