BOURNEMOUTH Carnival organisers are renewing their call for help to keep the annual celebration alive.

They’re warning that if more people don’t come forward, this summer’s event could be the last.

Committee member Trevor Hunter is urging residents and businesses to get on board.

“The message is – please come along with ideas,” Mr Hunter said.

“Be prepared to help in anyway, wherever and whenever possible.

“They could be willing to get their feet wet paddling in the stream for the duck race, rattling buckets by the band stand or selling tickets in the teddy bear stand.”

The committee say they are especially desperate to find a photographer and someone who can update their website advertising for the carnival, which is more than 130 years old.

All new ideas are welcome, he said, calling on businesses to pop carnival posters in their windows.

Mr Hunter added: “We can’t seem to get businesses enthusiastic enough.

“If we can get them on side that would really help to spread the word.”

Volunteers should call Mr Hunter on 07803 895606 or attend the next committee meeting at Days Hotel, Russell Cotes Road, from 7pm on Tuesday, May 1.