The countdown is on for Ilfracombe Carnival

Witches, Disney characters, sheep and pirates were out in force this week to make Combe Martin Carnival a resounding success. Now it's time for neighbours Ilfracombe to step up and put on a colourfully entertaining carnival for locals and visitors on their last minute UK breaks.

The countdown is on for Ilfracombe Carnival, which takes place next week, as the town prepares for one of the biggest events in its annual calendar.

Floats and walkers will again congregate at Brimlands car park, on Thursday 21 August, before filtering out at the slightly earlier time of 6.30pm.

The traditional procession route is back by popular demand and will see floats make their way to Ilfracombe seafront.

Participants set off from Brimlands, travelling along Hillsborough Road, Portland Street and the High Street, before heading down Wilder Road and on to the seafront. Floats and costumes will then be judged and presented with their prizes.

Supporting the main carnival, and returning after rave reviews during last month's All Things Morris, are the street vendors. Those of you on your last minute holidays UK can experience a range of delicious dishes created from locally sourced produce.

The event will be raising money for North Devon Hospice, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Family entertainment and live music will be featuring throughout the day down at the seafront, so take a stroll down from Ilfracombe Holiday Park and enjoy the atmosphere.