Threatened carnival in £2,000 boost for charities

Under-threat Kidderminster Carnival has raised more than £2,000 which will be split between three charities in the area this year, it has been revealed.

Organisers today said the lion's share of the cash will be donated to the Kidderminster and District Girl Guides Association.

The group is to receive £1,500 to help fund events from Rainbows to Guides as the movement celebrates its centenary this year.

A further £500 will be used to buy life-saving equipment for the Severn Area Rescue Association. The final £100 will be given to the Kidderminster Club for the Blind to fund its Christmas party.

Organisers said they were pleased this year's carnival was such a success - as the event's future remains far from certain.

Members of the present organising committee plan to retire this year and replacements have yet to be secured.

A final decision on the future of the carnival will be made at the event's annual general meeting on October 20.

Organisers say the success of the event leaves the carnival accounts in a healthy position for a new committee to take over.

Residents who would like to volunteer for the role are asked to attend the AGM which will be held at Kidderminster Town Hall from 8pm.