A TRADITIONAL carnival parade is set to return after three years - and a great event is planned as big names are getting behind it.

The popular carnival procession features floats and performers and will take place from its usual starting point at the Cross Road and Fambridge Road junction.

Robert Slight, chairman of Maldon Carnival, said: "Like many events throughout the UK, Covid restrictions meant we could not go ahead in 2020 and 2021, and unfortunately in 2019 we were cancelled due to lack of volunteers.

"However, this year we have the required volunteers and the funds after being awarded £5,750 in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity.

READ MORE: Carnival gets funding to bring back popular procession after three years

"We also have full support from the Maldon Salt Company, who are our exclusive headline sponsors, and are celebrating their 140 year anniversary this year.

"With the big names getting behind us, it just goes to show that the procession is still very popular - it is a tradition that people would like to keep and celebrate.

"Domino's Pizza are also getting onboard and supporting us by sponsoring one of our awards - Best Overall Float.

"We are hoping that the people of Maldon and the surrounding areas will really embrace the carnival this year and help celebrate the theme which is the Queen's Jubilee.

"Maldon Carnival first begun in 1895 and it would be a real shame if we lost such a tradition, because once it is gone it will be lost forever".

The procession returns on Saturday, August 6 from 2.15pm.

Maldon Carnival invites any community group, business or charity to join in the fun of the procession.

Contact organisers on the Maldon Carnival Facebook page or call Robert on 07883 352 615 for more details.

Maldon Carnival is still raising funds for the carnival festivities by putting on an Easter Bonanza, offering personal Easter Bunny visits over the holiday weekend, and hosting an exclusive three course dinner and dance in May.