A BIG crowd is expected at Shildon's annual carnival next weekend.

Months of planning by the Shildon carnival working committee will come to fruition, starting with a parade through the town centre next Saturday.

Those taking part in the parade will meet in Sunnydale Leisure Centre, at 10.30am, before a procession to Hackworth Park where the main events will take place.

Carnival entertainment will include Tom and Tilly Turnip, an obstacle course, sheep, duck and dog displays, the Rowan Pipe Band, a dance and music marquee, and displays by the Royal Navy and the 4th Regimental Royal Artillery.

There will also be a laser dome shooting gallery, static displays, inflatables, and children's entertainment.

A spokesman for the carnival committee said: "A lot of hard work has been done and there is a lot on offer.

"We are hoping that people turn out and enjoy themselves."