THE carnival spirit is here as a town gears up for its annual celebration.

Horwich Carnival will take place this weekend over both days in Station Park and around the town.

As well as being able to take part in the well-known parade, residents also have the chance for a bit of celeb-spotting.

Anthony Quinlon, aka Pete Barton, and Michael Parr, aka Ross Barton, from TV soap Emmerdale will take part in the parade and will be signing autographs afterwards.

Vice chairman of the carnival, Andrea Allott, said: "It will be a great weekend with lots of fun for all the family.

"It is a good way of bringing the community together.

"Everybody should have a really good time, there's lots for the kids and parents can come into the beer tent for a quick pint!"

There is a packed programme for the weekend, beginning on Saturday with baby shows at 10am.

Then at midday the town’s royalty – the carnival queen, junior queen, princess, junior princess, rosebud and petal – will be crowned.

In the afternoon there will be a daywear show for the best dressed youngsters, for children aged three and older.

There will also be a visit from Paw Patrol on Saturday afternoon.

On both days there will be a range of market stalls set up in the park.

On Sunday from midday will be the big parade around the town, starting from Ramsbottom Road, through Lee Lane and Chorley New Road before finishing in Station Park.

The Rivington and Addlington Brass Band will be performing in the marquee on Sunday afternoon, as well as Body in Motion dance school and the top three winners of Voice of Horwich competition.

Entry to the park is free but there is a cost of £1 for a programme which can then be signed by the Emmerdale stars.