A DESPERATE appeal has been voiced for 'fresh' people to volunteer their time to help with organising the town's carnival.

Current chairman of the Wellington Carnival Committee, Dave Rylatt, has voiced the call to action in hopes of inspiring more people to get involved.

He feels new volunteers are needed to take the town's annual procession forward.

He said: "“While we are proud of what we have achieved acting as custodians for this fantastic event for the past six years, it is apparent that the event needs to move forward with fresh leadership, and fresh ideas.

"The dynamics of organising large public events are also changing, and we are desperately in need of help to take our event forward, and to preserve this unique Somerset event for the town of Wellington.

"Our carnival is also a truly international event, as we have forged excellent twinning relationships in France and Portugal where exchange trips and participation in carnival is reciprocated."

Mr Rylatt said a small loyal band of volunteers want to continue helping new people who want to dedicate their time, but he thinks new leadership is needed to delivery a 'safe and profitable' event.

There is a variety of roles available, including marketing and promotion, marshalling, collecting, toy selling, float design and more.

A presentation evening is set to take place on Sunday, February 17, for the current committee to explain what is involved in putting together the town's carnival.

Following the session, more than £3,500 will be donated to local groups, schools and charities from donations made from people supporting carnival during 2018.

A spokesman for the committee said: "If there are any individuals, groups or businesses who would like to hear about what we do and who are willing to step forward and lend a hand, we would love to hear from you."