THOUSANDS of people are expected to get in the party spirit for Amesbury Carnival on Saturday.

The day starts with the carnival procession through the town leaving Stonehenge School at about 11.15am and arriving at Holders Road Field at about 12.15pm.

Alongside the many local groups participating in the At the Movies themed procession will be the Notting Hill Carnival style Rampage Mas band who celebrate their 30th year this year. Also taking part are the wacky Bournemouth Carnival Band who return as the Batman Band after performing as the Spiderman band last year.

The Carnival sees a packed afternoon of events taking place on the showground from about12.30pm and include Ben Hur chariot racing from Gerard Naprous' Devils Horsemen as well as many other displays.

There will also be a fun fair, stalls and lots to see and do for all the family, as well as the popular dog show. There are many free events for all the family to enjoy.

The showground is open from 11am and admission is just £2.50 for adults and free for children. Parking is available on the field.

On Friday there will be a free family music night from 6pm to 10pm on Holders Road Field featuring Break Cover, the Southern Comfort Band and Gray Smith. The carnival is supporting Hope for Tomorrow to raise funds to provide chemotherapy units.