HALESOWEN Carnival is returning this summer - with the biggest and best event yet - but organisers are appealing for sponsors to ensure it remains free.

There will be three stages of live music, dance acts, a dog show and a fairground at the carnival on July 4.

But to ensure the revived event, which costs £7k to stage, remains free for all, organisers are now appealing for people visit its Justgiving site to make a donation.

They also want people interested in hosting a stall to e mail halesowencarnival@gmail.com

Halesowen Carnival, which takes place in Highfield Park, off Highfield Lane, returned for the first time in 30 years in 2015 thanks to the hard work of a dedicated team of volunteers.

Around 4,000 people attended last year's event, which was opened by X-Factor star Jaymi Hensley, who met brave schoolboy Finley Hill, who was VIP.

Carnival chairman Stuart Henley said: "We are planning a bigger event than ever before with a large variety of music on the three stages.

"There will also be dance acts – which the public can even have a go at –as well as fun dog show that grows in size every year.

"It is free to enter, with food and drink available to cater for most needs, as well as market stalls, fairground and loads more.

"The carnival has now been running since 2015, when it was brought back after a 30-year break.

"However, the event costs around £7,000 to put on each year and we wish to keep it free entry for all.

"To do this we have to fund raise each year to make this happen."

Mr Henley said the committee had not yet reached its £7,000 target and an appeal had been launched for businesses and residents to consider making a donation.

A justgiving page has been launched where donations can easily be made online, while a dedicated email address has also been set up for all enquires.

"No matter how big or small the donation is, it is all appreciated," said Mr Henley.

"One company has so far generously come forward to sponsor a stage, Express Taxis – Halesowen.

"We still also have stall vacancies and are looking for craft sellers to fill them.

"Anyone interested can get in contact via our email address."