ORGANISERS are gearing up for the spectacle of the 120-year-old Titchfield Carnival next week.

Up to 35,000 people are expected to flock to the village on Monday to see processions of colourful floats as well as decorated homes and businesses, costumes, bands, a marching display and a beacon and fireworks.

Bunting has been put up in the Square and East Street and carnival programmes have been distributed throughout the village.

Two processions will wind their way around Titchfield in a new route, which will see a return to the traditional circuit with the aim of easing crowd congestion and providing more viewing opportunities.

Organisers Titchfield Bonfire Boys' Society have overcome worries about a lack of helpers and financial uncertainty to stage this year's charity event, which is billed as the largest carnival on the south coast.

Committee member Phillip Wills said: "We are hoping that this year will be one of the best carnivals ever.

"We have not only had a change of parade route, but we've also been lucky enough to get some input from some of the people who take part in the Notting Hill carnival.

"They are coming along with some of their big costume pieces and tall stilt-walkers."

The entertainment starts at noon and ends at about 9.30pm. The processions set off from Bellfield at 2.40pm and 6.40pm. Jessica Silver will be crowned carnival queen in the Square at 2.30pm.

A beacon will signal the start of the aerial firework display at 9pm.

The day is expected to raise thousands of pounds for local groups and societies.