THIS November could see the last South Zeal Carnival, unless new people can be found to run the annual event.

The organising committee is holding its annual meeting this month and chairman Dawn Watkins is appealing for more local residents to get involved.

Mrs Watkins said: 'For the last couple of years our numbers have been dwindling, so there's now a big question mark over the future of the carnival.

'We have tremendous support on carnival day itself but I don't think people realise how much work is involved in the 12 months preparation.

'If we don't have a good response at the annual meeting I think this year's carnival will be the last.'

Mrs Watkins said it would be a shame to see the traditional village carnival come to an end after many years, but 'new blood' was desperately needed as several members of the committee are due to step down.

She said despite the dreadful rain experienced during the carnival over the last few years, there had still been a healthy number of floats entering the popular procession.

'We always have about 15 to 20 floats booked which is a lot for a little village, and they're nearly all local.

'We still had 14 this year when it was almost a hurricane!'

In addition to the carnival floats and procession, there is a children's parade and fancy dress and a small fairground.

The carnival committee meets usually once a month, sometimes twice in October before the big event the following month, but takes a break in August.

Mrs Watkins said: 'It is hard work, but we do have a laugh when we're doing it — and it does bring the community together.'

The annual meeting of South Zeal carnival committee takes place at 8pm in Shelly Methodist Church room on Thursday January 11. Everyone is welcome to attend and new members and ideas will be greeted warmly.

Anyone who would like to find out more about organising the carnival can contact Dawn Watkins on 01837 840946.