A HAMPSHIRE carnival is set to return after a two-year break caused by the pandemic.

Totton & Eling Carnival Committee is due to be staged on June 18 - and organisers are vowing it will be bigger and better than ever.

They are working closely with Totton College, which is once again the main sponsor.

First held in 1914, the annual celebration is described as an upbeat, family-orientated event that is close to residents' hearts. Each year thousands of people turn out to watch the parade make its way through the town centre.

Carnival chairman Tanya Harder added: "It’s a pleasure to be working with a fantastic team who are constantly giving up their free time to volunteer to put the carnival together.

"The team and myself are just ecstatic to be able to come together and provide an event for all the residents and families in our much loved area.

"It’s not only about the residents and families though, as the money raised from the event goes towards local charities to help provide support as best as we can."

Organisers say the carnival would not be possible without the support of schools and businesses and the generosity of local residents.

Tanya said: "There is a lot that goes into bringing such an incredible event to the local area and I'd like to thank my committee - Steph Hallas, Dave Hills, Gill Knighton, Donna Summers and Leanne Alford for all their hard work, the time they have taken out of their normal lives and for just being extraordinary individuals with big hearts."

Anyone wishing to sponsor the carnival, take part in the parade, run a stall or volunteer can email tottonandelingcarnival@gmail.com