A HAMPSHIRE town will be gripped by carnival fever today.

A colourful parade of floats will make their way through the centre of Totton this afternoon.

They will assemble at Calmore Industrial Estate before setting off at 4pm.

Roads in the town centre will be closed to enable the vehicles to make their way to Eling Recreation Ground, where the celebrations will continue throughout the evening.

At one point this year's carnival was in danger of being scrapped, with organisers citing a shortage of funding and volunteers.

But the event was saved in April after Totton College agreed to sponsor it for a further three years.

Speaking at the time a college spokesman said: "The carnival was first run more than 100 years ago and helps to raise money for local causes.

"It was previously under threat due to a lack of community support and funding to help pay for insurance, medical cover and security costs.

"Having heard about the plight of the organisers, Totton College has agreed to a £5,000 deal that will see it become the main sponsor."