Excitement is building throughout Accrington as this year’s historic carnival is just weeks away.

The event, celebrating its 50th year, will take place on June 13, and will see a procession of ‘fairytales and fantasy’ themed floats through the town centre. It will lead to King George’s Playing Fields, where organisers the Accringon Lions will have set up a host of attractions.

Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to the event.

Coun Ken Moss, Hyndburn council’s portfolio holder for leisure and arts, called it “one of the biggest events in the Accrington calendar”.

He said: “It will be bigger and better than ever. There are all sorts of different events going on. It’s huge and we’re expecting a turnout of thousands. All the surrounding towns will come together in the town centre - it’s a real carnival atmosphere.”

Sponsors North Lancashire Training Group has supported the carnival with a £3,500 donation.

Senior manager Chris Lovell said: “It’s the town’s main event - it brings people together and supports the Accrington Lions, which we are proud to be associated with.

“There’s real excitement with everybody getting involved. It’s bringing people together and it will be a great day for families.”

The Lions are also putting on two events in the run-up to the carnival. The Carnival Queen Competition - now in its 50th year - will take place at The Brooks Club on May 28. Women over 16, who live and work in Hyndburn, can enter and should call May Edmundson on 07806 093068 or Tracy Simmonds on 07971 772168 before May 22 to arrange a photograph.

The new Queen will then judge the Carnival Princess Competition alongside special guest Princess Elsa from Frozen. Up to 40 Hyndburn girls between six and 11 years can enter the event on May 30 at Oswaldtwistle Mills from 9.30am. They should collect application forms from Oswaldtwistle Mills, Barbara Kay Shoes or online at www.accringtoncarnival.co.uk .

The queen and the princess will be star attractions at the carnival.

Kimberley Robinson, 20, the incumbent Queen, said she “loved every minute” of her experience and had some advice for this year’s contestants.

She said: “Be yourself, don’t try and act like someone you’re not. Be friendly towards the people and try to make a difference.”