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Charlie Merrick, Heather Ryall and Jessica Osmond

CARNIVAL revellers won't have as far to go in Verwood this year as organisers bow under the pressure of new rules and regulations and opt for a shorter route around the town.

The advent of tighter rules surrounding insurance and the news that police will no longer help with road closures have been blamed for the decision to cut the route, which it is also hoped will spare the legs of youngsters taking part.

Carnival committee chairman Adrian Read said: "The police won't be helping with road closures and we don't get the response with floats that we used to because of insurance, so we have more walking entries and it can be a bit far, especially for schools."

Last year's event, which is always held on the May bank holiday, was marred by poor weather and Mr Read hopes the carnival spirit can be revived this year.

It was a move in the right direction at the weekend when three times as many volunteers as last year turned up to put their names forward to be carnival princesses - with the crowns eventually going to Jessica Osmond, 11, and Charlie Merrick, 14, with this year's Queen to be 18-year-old Heather Ryall.

The carnival procession, on May 26, will start as usual at the Fuzzy Bit, going along Station Road, Vicarage Road, Manor Road, Churchill Road and into Dewlands before heading back up to the Fuzzy Bit.

In the field afterwards there will be the usual array of entertainment, with games, stalls and, it is hoped, comedian Dingle Fingle, who has been specially requested by residents following last year's hit performance.

Mr Read is also on the lookout for any dog display teams that might be available to come along. He can be contacted on 01202 826908 or 07831 315698.

7:11am Tuesday 25th March 2008

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