UNLESS more people step forward to join Mitcheldean's Carnival Committee the community's big event could become extinct this year.

"As a member of Mitcheldean Carnival Committee, I am appealing for volunteers to join," says the organisation's secretary, Emma Jones. 

"At present Mitchel­dean Carnival, which is usually a big event within the Forest, is at risk of not going ahead due to lack of support.

"Ever since its resurrection 10 years ago, Mitcheldean's carnival has gone from strength to strength. It has become a major summer event in the Forest calendar, attracting people from far and wide, as well as, of course, the majority of village residents."

However, says Mrs Jones, for several years now, due to dwindling interest in joining the Committee, Mitcheldean Carnival has been organised by a skeleton crew of approximately six people.

"The Carnival Committee has said in previous years they are in desperate need of help, but to no avail," she said.

"It is hard to understand that hundreds of people within the community look forward to the Carnival, planning fancy dress outfits and floats then turn out on carnival day to enjoy themselves and take part, but not one has come forward in the past couple of years to volunteer their time and support."

Mrs Jones, who said the duties were not very difficult or time consuming, can be contacted on 541218.