Woodham businesses are lending their support as organisers get plans ship-shape for the town's major event.

The town show and carnival - with a nautical theme this year, as the town is by the river - will be spread over three days.

This Is Essex partner the Woodham Chronicle has agreed to give publicity and promotional help for the event and is amongst a range of businesses giving their backing to the event run by the Friends of Guiding, Lions, Rotary club and Round Table.

"We have had sponsorship from Lex Rover for the town show and applied for Chelmsford Borough Council and Millennium Commission grants," said Lion Graham Kirkland.

He added: "The town businesses have been very good advertising in the programme -- in fact we've had to up the programme size.

'' The town council has also given £2,500 for printing the programme."

But he said a Sunday evening pop concert has had to be cancelled because it would have cost in excess of £6,000 for policing.

Other costs have had to be trimmed as there is not enough sponsorship.

Any further help to stage the event which really brings the whole community out in force would be welcome.

Events will take place between Friday April 28 to Monday May 1.

Sports enthusiasts will be able to take part in football, rugby and cricket competitions on the Saturday afternoon at Saltcoates Park

Action starts with an under 16's disco on the Friday night, followed by the sports events over Saturday and Sunday and finishes with the carnival and town show on bank holiday Monday.

A Breeze AM road show, clown display act and Rockford Dogs display team are among attractions confirmed for the show so far.

Cash raised from the show will be split between the organising charity groups, with Town Show stall holders keeping their own profits.

Further information is available on the Town Show Information Line 01245 425182,

Queries can also be left on the number. Carnival entry forms are available from Colin Saunders on 0498 600214 and stall booking forms for the Town Show from from George Batho on 01245 329182 (evenings).

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