Watton Carnival is gearing-up for the celebration of life in the town by bringing all ages together to take part in events and its carnival procession.

Eastern Daily Press: Watton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski PhotographyWatton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski Photography (Image: Neal Trafankowski)

The day provides an opportunity for charities, organisations and businesses to raise awareness and fundraise while also offering families free attractions and activities.

This year's theme is the Festival of Colour with organisers inviting people to dress-up.

What are the timings?

The carnival kicks-off at 11am on Sunday, September 15 with an open-air morning church service led by Watton Pentecostal Church, on Watton High Street.

Eastern Daily Press: Watton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski PhotographyWatton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski Photography (Image: Neal Trafankowski)

This is followed by the official opening of the carnival at 11.45am by town mayor Patricia Warwick.

The carnival is then open for families to enjoy the activities, rides and stalls.

The procession will take place at 1pm headed by The Phoenix Pipes and Drums followed by this year's princesses and princes.

Anyone can take part in parade they just need to meet at Thetford Road Memorial Car Park at 12.30pm.

Eastern Daily Press: Watton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski PhotographyWatton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski Photography (Image: Neal Trafankowski)

The carnival will closed at 4pm.

Activities and competitions

The Hunting Hareton competition returns this year with 35 decorated hares being hidden in shops across Watton. Entry is free and the forms can be found in stores displaying a Hunting Hareton sign.

A Pro Slot Racing track will be free to use.

Eastern Daily Press: Watton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski PhotographyWatton Carnival 2018. Picture: Neal Trafankowski Photography (Image: Neal Trafankowski)

Live music will be performed throughout the carnival with Thomas Banbridge returning alongside musicians from the town and surrounding area.

A number of stalls will be on offer hosted by charities, businesses, including home-made produce and crafts, and local organisations.

Travel and parking

Watton has three car parks which allow two hours of free parking.

Kittell Close is two minutes away from the town centre and has 69 spaces. Memorial Way is seven minutes from the centre with 52 spaces but be aware this is where the carnival parade will start from. Goddard Court is 11 minutes from the centre with 54 spaces.

The High Street will be closed from 8am until 6pm with bus routes being diverted. A temporary bus stop will be created at the top of the street where passengers will be able to continue their journey as normal.

Bus routes to Watton are the number 3,6/6a, 11/11a and 13 service provided by Konnect Bus.

For more information about the carnival go to www.wattoncarnival.co.uk.