HUNDREDS of people will line the streets of Wickford for the much-anticipated return of the town’s carnival. 

Organisers have confirmed the annual event will return after a three-year hiatus caused by the Covid pandemic.

Sean Ellis, chairman of the Wickford Town Carnival team, hopes the event will bring the community back together after a difficult few years.

He said: “It is exciting to be bringing the carnival back again.

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“It is a pride in our town and a free event for everyone to enjoy.

“It contains a sense of community, belonging, togetherness, and wellbeing.

“I think after a three-year absence we deserve a good party, as we have missed everyone.”

He added: “We have a great team of volunteers here at the carnival and so I urge everyone to come along and see the parade before heading to Nevendon park for the party.

“It will all be good fun.”

The carnival starts at noon by Runwell Park and then onto Wickford High Street before finishing outside Nevendon Park.

Once at Nevendon park, those taking part will be able to enjoy a mix of stalls, rides, food, and music.

Don Morris, who represents Wickford Castledon ward at Basildon Council, is delighted to hear the event is returning. 

He said: “I think it is absolutely brilliant the event is coming back, and we are getting back to normal life.

“It is so good, and I take my hat off to the people organising it too as you know I really appreciate they are doing that.

“It is great for Wickford to have an event like this, and it is has been three long years without it

“It is an event the people and folks of Wickford really enjoy and appreciate to have in the town.

“I hope people turn out to the carnival and show appreciation to the organisers and volunteers.”

The carnival is due to get underway from midday on Saturday, September 10.