BUDE Carnival Committee have expressed their disappointment at the lack of interest shown towards the royalty positions available at this year's event.

Despite publicising the positions with schools and local businesses, feedback has not been forthcoming and Sue Bartrop, secretary of the committee wonders what more they can do: "Why should we put all the hard work in getting permission, organising the event and advertising if people are not going to support us? We know money is tight but it is all for charity, a good cause.

"Last year we had to ask the previous carnival queen to reprise her role and it simply isn't fair. It could put Bude's carnival in jeopardy for this coming August."

Bude Carnival has run every year since December, 1920, excluding 1938 to 46 due to World War Two, and the first carnival event included a grand torch-light procession, a grand masked confetti fete, hourly concerts by four jolly sailor men and an exhibition of war trophies.

Upon continuation after the war, the event was moved to the August bank holiday and now takes place on the third of said month each year.

Money collected from the event has always been donated, after expenses, to local charity organisations – since the first Bude Carnival held collected money for Stratton Cottage Hospital.

If people would like the opportunity to be part of such a traditional and prestigious occasion in the Bude calendar, can they please contact Sue Bartrop on 01288 354066.

With the meeting to decide the royalty having passed with no interest, time is increasingly short. Those who do wish to apply for a chance to participate should do so as soon as possible.