PREPARATIONS are complete and the weather forecast is looking hopeful for the annual Shirley Carnival this weekend.
The calendar highlight, which takes place on Saturday (July 8) promises to be the biggest and best yet with a host of arena and audience participation events planned for the eager public.
This year the Carnival will have an Edwardian theme as the Silhill Morris Dancers take to the stage and the Stuart Barnes dogs show everyone how they herd ducks.
Carnival chairman, Lion Jeremy Lees said: “Over the 35 years the Lions have been organising the Carnival it’s become an increasingly important event on the community’s calendar and the Lions were always keen to promote local talent by giving them the opportunity to perform at the Carnival.”
Jeremy went on to say that there would be a wide variety of performances catering for all tastes.
The event will be opened by Solihull MP Julian Knight and will be followed by displays from the ever-popular Shirley Brass Band and the Animated Dance Academy.
The very young have not been forgotten as the traditional Punch and Judy get up to their tricks.
Jeremy added that the Carnival always has two objectives – to provide a fun filled day for all the family and to raise money for charity.
He said: “This year we have made a change from raising funds for one large national charity to spreading the proceeds between a number of small local charities and it is hoped that the public of Shirley will turn up in their thousands to support these worthwhile causes.”
Gates open at 11.30am with the programme of events commencing at noon.
Admission prices are held once again at £1 for everyone.
