Bridesmaid Stephanie Stone, Carnival Princess Susan Bugg and Bridesmaid Grayce Bates will lead this year's Carnival procession

THE big day is almost here and all the preparations are in place for this year’s Potters Bar Carnival.

This year’s Potters Bar Carnival on Sunday promises to be another entertaining day for the town, coming just a fortnight after the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Organisers are keeping their fingers crossed the current forecast for the weekend – showers – doesn’t bear fruit.

But whatever the weather, the parade will leave as usual from the Canada Life building at 12.30pm, led by carnival princess Susan Bugg and her maids of honour, Grayce Bates and Stephanie Stone.

The procession with walking floats will make its way to the fete at Elm Court Youth and Community Centre via Mutton Lane and Darkes Lane.

Peter and Sue Weaver and the rest of the organising committee have been busy putting the finishing touches to plans, but are pleased now things are all ready to go.

Peter said: “As usual we have a very entertaining afternoon in store.

“The highlight of the afternoon’s show will be a skirmish put on by the American Civil War re-enactment society, the Southern Skirmish Society.

“This will involve a small troop of Southern soldiers attacking a Yankee encampment with plenty of bangs and shouting.

“We have a new band this year, The Long Eaton Militaires, who promise to put on an entertaining show and local dancing and singing group Talent Time.

“As well as these, we also have Dacorum Majorettes and the ever-popular Glen Trew Pipe Band.

“We also have the Revival Band playing lots of popular music to entertain the crowds.

“As usual there will be lots to do on the field, a children’s fun fair, pony rides, bouncy castle and Punch and Judy. There are nearly 60 stalls catering for all ages.

“Of course the inner man is not forgotten with burger stalls, beer tent and stalls selling cakes, sandwiches and soft drinks.”

There is still space to join in the procession and anyone interested should contact Peter or Sue on 01707 850147.