Americans have been invited to take part in this year’s 100th Maldon carnival.

Those studying at George Washington University, in Washington DC, have been asked to take part in this year’s carnival in the hope of making it the biggest and best yet.

Tim Smith, who lives in Stondon Massey but has relatives in Maldon, is enthusiastic about protecting the future of the carnival, after it faced axe this year due to lack of volunteers.

The amateur historian has contacted the university in the hope of tempting over a performing group, although nothing has been confirmed.

He said: “I believe my idea could do very well.

“We need to utilise the American connections as a way of promoting the area bring in people to the carnival."

See this week's MBS for the full story.