BATON twirlers, street dancers and live musicians are just some of the entertainers set to go carnival crazy tomorrow.

As part of the Basildon and Pitsea Carnival, a procession of more than 25 floats, some never seen before at the event, will parade through the town centre.

The floats, which include majorettes, firemen, women wearing red hats and even miniature horses, will work their way to Northlands Park, off Felmores, where the fun will continue with dog display teams, fairground rides, tombolas and a number of stalls.

“The carnival brings the community together and is for the people of Basildon,” says George Coleman-Wood, chairman of Basildon and Pitsea Carnival Association.

“We have a number of stalls and floats to entertain both children and adults.

“The event brings people out and lets them get involved in the town. In taking part they are also helping to raise money for charity.”

This year’s carnival will raise funds for the Hands Together charity, Breathe Easy Essex and Beech United, the Basildon-based youth football club.

More than £600 was donated to charity from last year’s carnival and George hopes this year’s figure will be even higher.

“It’s much better now we go through the town centre as it increases the street collection and more shoppers get involved,” he says.

“It’s up to the public how much we raise, but I hope it’s more than last year.

“We’re crossing our fingers for good weather.”

Organisers are still taking entries from clubs, businesses and schools for the procession.

If you are interested, contact Stuart Terson, vice chairman of the association, on 01268 459724 or via www.piczo.com/bpca The carnival starts at 12pm, from Leinster Road, and the fete runs at Northlands Park until 5pm.