THE annual Lions carnival parade through the streets of Tavistock takes place on July 19 ? and the club is hoping changes in the route will mean a bumper entry for this year?s procession.

The length of the route has been reduced by more than half a mile and the Lions Club hope the shorter procession will encourage more walking entries, particularly among children and young people.

The parade will start at Down Road and follow the usual route along Plymouth Road, turning right at Drake?s Statue and going down the hill through West Street.

But instead of taking in Duke Street, Brook Street and Vigo Bridge, the procession will go straight through Bedford Square, finishing at Abbey Rise.

Lions spokesman Steve Grummitt said: ?Well over £2,000 is usually collected by the Lions and other collectors en route, much of which is distributed among the charities, clubs and schools that participate in the parade, as well as other local charitable groups.

?Cash prizes of £200 were awarded to the entries that won last year?s best in procession and best in carnival theme ? and the club is hopeful the Uplands Estate and Gulworthy Primary School will be back to defend their titles.?

The theme for this year?s procession is ?Children?s stories, Nursery Rhymes and Pantomimes?.

Transport companies happy to loan vehicles for the parade are Langdons and Pethicks and they can be contacted on 01752 777110 and 01822 611077.

Steve said: ?The Lions are extremely grateful for their continued support, for without them, the parade would not be the spectacle that it has been over the last few years.?

Carnival week starts on July 11 ? anyone wishing to participate should complete the application form as soon as possible. More information can be obtained by calling Roger Lethbridge on 01822 613794.