Revamp forces town's carnival switch

Bilston's historic carnival will be held in East Park this summer because renovation works at its traditional venue will not be completed in time, the Express & Star can reveal today.

The spectacular was held from 1931 until 1998 before resuming in 2003, but was cancelled last year because of the project to restore Hickman Park to its full Victorian glory. Today it emerged the park's £900,000 makeover is set to over-run, prompting organiser Joe Boden to switch venues rather than lose the carnival for another year.

The event will take place at East Park this year on July 19 and 20 and will be preceded by the Party in the Park concert on June 15, which will go ahead in the newly-renovated ampitheatre in Hickman Park.

Mr Boden said: "I hope the people of Bilston will understand the reason for the move and still come along to support the carnival.

"It will be a much bigger event because there is more room at East Park."

Among the attractions will be a funfair and a walking float procession which will stay within the confines of the beauty spot.

Any person or group wanting to get involved with either event is now being asked to register their interest as soon as possible.

Mr Boden said: "Bands, marching bands, schools and colleges, clubs and pubs, scouts and guides, all are welcome. There will be stalls and sideshows. Everyone can book for both events."

The restoration works will retain the park's Victorian feel while adding extra facilities.

These will include a ranger centre, public toilets, three mini football pitches, improvements to the play areas, refurbishment of the terraces and restoration of historic features. Plans also include the removal of the 1960s depot building, to be replaced by a new structure.

The headline act at Party in the Park will be Footloose, the 1950s revival band. To book a place at Bilston Carnival or Party in the Park, call Mr Boden on 01902 495257 or 01922 721130.