PUNTERS are being encouraged to roll up for this year’s Easter Compton Carnival.

Organisers say this year’s carnival will bigger and better than ever thanks to rugby giants England star Roy Winters and fellow Bristol team mate Matt Salter.

The two players will be opening the carnival, which traditionally starts with a procession through the village.

Sally Garbett, vice-chairman of the carnival committee, said: "Every year we try to get someone to open the carnival and we have had plenty of television presenters but this year we definitely have something for the ladies with the appearance of Roy Winters and Matt Salter."

The carnival, which has been running for more than 40 years, is an important fundraiser for the village and all money raised goes to support the running of Easter Compton’s village hall.

Through the carnival, as well as a number of other annual fundraising events such as a fireworks display and a charity auction, groups such as Brownies and Scouts are able to hire the village hall for free.

As well as the procession, carnival queens and the sporting stars, this year’s Easter Compton Carnival also promises an array of entertainment from bouncy castles and acrobatics to stalls, a barbecue and fully licensed all-day bar.

There is also the annual tug-of-war competition, performances by the 93rd Squadron City of Bath Air Cadets Marching Band and a children’s funfair.

"The carnival has changed a lot over the years but it really offers a great family day out.

"The procession gives people the chance to really enter into the spirit of the event. Now we don’t have floats and lorries people have to get creative about how they will move through the village.

"The procession is now followed by all the activities and entertainment on the village field," said Ms Garbett.

The Easter Compton Carnival is being held on Saturday, June 13. The procession starts at 1.30pm.

Motorists are reminded that to allow the procession to happen the main road through Easter Compton will be closed for a time.

For more information visit www.eastercompton.org