AMBITIOUS plans are being drawn up to revive Halesowen Carnival more than 20 years after it was scrapped.

Enthusiasts hope to recreate the once-popular event at Huntingtree Playingfields, plus a street parade, next July.

The bid is being spearheaded by Simon Walker, who is keen to rekindle childhood memories of the town’s fun day.

The carnival was organised by the Round Table until the mid-1980s and Mr Walker said market research had revealed considerable interest in reviving the event.

He said a public meeting attracted a “better than expected” response last Saturday, with 18 people turning up at Caslon Hall in the town’s library and another is planned for next month.

Mr Walker, from Rowley Regis, said the carnival plan was attracting support from councillors, the police, the town’s Rotary club and Masons.

He said: “I was quite surprised at the turnout and the range of supporters, the youngest being just 17 years old.”

Mr Walker was inspired to revive the carnival after seeing old photographs of past events on the Hales Owen Roots website.

“I want to get it up and running as I remember it as a child – everyone used to look forward to it,” he said, adding: “We hope to stage a spectacular event.”

It is planned to appoint a committee at the next meeting on Saturday September 6 at the library’s Shenstone Theatre at 2pm and Mr Walker said monthly public meetings will be held.

“It’s a community event and the community should be involved,” he added.

It is hoped to involve schools with ideas such as a poster competition and for fringe events to be organised alongside the carnival led by youth and community groups.

Funding bids to cover costs will be made to grant-giving bodies and the National Lottery and Mr Walker is appealing for companies to sponsor the carnival.

A Facebook page, Halesowen Carnival 2015, has been created for people to follow developments and has already attracted 56 members.

Any individuals, organisations or charities and voluntary groups interested in helping should contact Mr Walker on 07884 061724 or by email to slwalker1972@gmail.com