CROWNS are being polished and float decorations finished in readiness for Northwich Carnival this weekend.

Star of the day will be Samantha Mainwaring who will be crowned Northwich carnival queen.

On Saturday, the parade will set off from Denton Drive at 1pm and make its way through the town to Verdin Park.

Northwich Carnival Committee's oldest member, 91-year-old Doris Royle, will crown Samantha as queen.

Organiser Barbara Turner said: "Doris is still an active member of the committee and we have done this as a thank you to her.

"She is very excited and is looking forward to the crowning."

Prizes will be awarded for best individual fancy dress, best fancy dress group, best decorated trade vehicle and best non-trade vehicle in the parade.

There will be family entertainment throughout the afternoon including bands, troupes, displays of Tai Kwan Do, cheerleaders and dancing.

Police are strongly advising motorists to avoid the town centre between 1pm and 2pm, as the majority of roads will be affected by temporary road closures.

On Sunday there will be a giant car boot sale from 8am, a glamorous granny competition, bonny baby show and a dog show.

Entries for the bonny baby competition will be from noon with judging beginning at 1pm.

Dog show entries will be taken from 11am and judging will begin at noon.

For details, ring Barbara on 01606 76113.