Newtown is gearing up to host its long-awaited carnival after several years of absence.

Organisers are urging locals to participate and attend the town center celebrations, scheduled for Saturday, June 8.

The Newtown Carnival Committee is currently searching for the Newtown Carnival Queen 2024, along with local singers, bands, and dance troupes to provide entertainment for the anticipated large crowds.

Volunteers are also needed to ensure the smooth running of the festivities.

Speaking to the Powys County Times, Jen Reynolds, carnival committee chairperson said:

“Any tenders for funfair hot and cold food through the day would be appreciated. We have a pizza truck, ice cream van and bar already.

"We thought about entertainment and are calling out to any local talent and dance troupes.

“If you need help in obtaining a lorry for our parade let us know and we will try to help.

“If you would like a stall on the field, charity or otherwise, we would like to hear from you.”

Those wishing to become carnival queens are asked to send a photograph along with a letter to the Carnival Committee, the Monty Club, Broad Street, Newtown, SY16 2LU. Letters must be entered by 20th February 2024.

The carnival, which had been a longstanding tradition for 136 years until the Covid-19 pandemic struck, was postponed since its last event held in 2019, primarily due to the lack of available volunteers to organize the event.