A town tradition of more than 100 years is set to continue.

As previously reported Sittingbourne Carnival Association chairman Pam Griggs had said that without more input from residents and businesses, the event could come to an end.

Her comments were made after a poor turnout and collection at last year’s carnival but it was announced last week that it will go ahead after all.

So far about 20 floats have entered. The deadline for others to submit their applications is June 17.

Mrs Griggs said: “We are still looking for entries from pubs, schools, children’s groups such as cubs, scouts, brownies, guides and businesses. Entries can be on a vehicle, or walkers, fancy dress etc.

“There is no charge to enter but we do ask that entrants have walkers with our collecting buckets/tins to help raise funds to keep carnival going in the future.

“The times are also earlier this year at the request of the Sittingbourne High Street traders.

“It means the parade will go through the town while the shops are still open. Hopefully it will benefit both of us.”

The parade will assemble at the recreation ground in Vicarage Road, Milton Regis, at 1pm on Saturday, June 22, with judging taking place at 2pm.

It then moves off at 3pm and will follow the same route as last year: Vicarage Road into Milton High Street, Crown Road, Chalkwell Road, London Road, West Street and High Street before dispersing in East Street.

The Sittingbourne Retail Association has arranged for live music and dancing in the High Street from noon until the parade passes through.

It plans to put on entertainment in the town several times a year, starting on carnival day.