Organisers of the Carshalton Carnival are thinking big this summer after inviting grappling Cumberland Giants to steal the annual show.

The 12ft inflatable wrestlers will be joining a Caribbean steel band and an acclaimed dog display team in Carshalton Park on Saturday, June 13.

The theme for the carnival parade this year is “planets and stars”, a nod to the 400th anniversary of the birth of modern astronomy, when Galileo first glimpsed the Moon.

Wallington & Carshalton Round Table and the Rotary Club of Carshalton have arranged for a procession of 20 celestial floats to leave Sutton Arena at noon.

Peter McBride, chairman of the Carshalton Carnival Committee, said: “The theme for this year’s Carnival parade recognises 2009 as being the UN International Year of Astronomy, which celebrates the 400th anniversary of Galileo turning a telescope to the sky.

“Featured arena acts include the battling Cumberland Giants, the biggest wrestlers in the world, the Essex Dog Display Team, with over 100 television appearances, plus the Haverettes All Girls Marching Band and Carshalton cheerleaders.

"A Caribbean steel band and Pete and Alice the Eagles - official Crystal Palace FC mascots – will also be joining in the fun.”

Revellers visiting the park, in Ruskin Road, can also enjoy Rose’s funfair, more than 60 fete stalls, a charity balloon race and a licensed beer tent.

For the sixth successive year, local bands are being given exposure at the Carshalton Carnival Showcase event, between 4pm and 7pm. On the Sunday, there is a car boot sale from 7.30am.

Entrance to Carshalton Park during the carnival is £2 for adults and £1 for children.

For more information visit carshaltoncarnival.org.uk



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