The future of Ashford’s annual carnival is again in the balance.

Fresh doubts over the popular event’s future emerged this week after veteran organisers Terry and Brenda Dickinson announced that they feel it is time to stand down.

The couple have been involved with organising the summer event for more than a quarter of a century.

Mrs Dickinson said: “We feel it is time for a younger group of enthusiastic people to take over the running of the carnival and Miss Ashford.

“Ashford Carnival is booked to take place on the second Sunday in July.

“The normal practice is for Ashford to attend other carnivals in Kent with Miss Ashford and the carnival float and in return representatives from other towns will attend the Ashford procession,” she added.

They are appealing for anyone interested in keeping the traditional carnival parade alive to contact them on 01233 623969.

“Our help will always be there should we be needed, but we would like to thank those who have supported us in the past including Viv Kenny at Ashford Town Centre Partnership, The Outlet Centre, Quest, Rimmel, Move-it, Phil Coast, Stanhope Over-60s club, Ashford council and the Stour Centre and Ashford police who have always allowed the event to run smoothly.”