COLCHESTER Carnival is back – after an 11-year break.

Supermarket chain Waitrose has stepped in to underwrite the event.

Now the hunt is on for local schools, clubs, organisations, marching bands and dance troupes to lead the way in putting the carnival back on the map.

With just eight weeks to go, would-be participants in the early-evening carnival procession need to get their ideas together for floats – and most important of all, send in their entry forms to the organisers.

The September 5 procession will start on Abbey Field at 6pm and wind its way down Napier Road and Mersea Road, across St Botolph’s roundabout, up Queen Street, along the High Street, down Head Street, into Butt Road, along Le Cateau Road and back to Abbey Field.

Organiser Ian Goldsworthy said moves to revive the carnival had been inspired by Colchester councillor Nigel Offen.

He explained: “Mr Offen was keen to get the carnival up and running again, so I spoke to Paul Reeley from the new Waitrose to see if it might be interested in helping.”

Floats can be entered from anywhere in the county, or even further afield, but Mr Goldsworthy is especially keen to attract local entrants.

Mr Reeley, manager of the town’s new Waitrose store, in St Andrew’s Avenue, said: “I understand the carnival has been on a backburner a long time.

“We’re new to the town and it’s a good opportunity to get our name out in the town and to emphasise our links with the local community.”

Mr Offen, who is borough councillor responsible for resources and business, said: “I used to live near where the old carnival used to start and it was fantastic.

“Everyone had a great time and a lot of money was collected for charity.

“I’m anxious to raise Colchester’s profile and we hope the carnival will improve business opportunities and tourism.”

Entry form and full details in Friday’s Gazette