THE famous Accrington Carnival is back on track thanks to funding from three local firms.

Accrington Lions Club, which has put on the bi-annual event since 1989, feared it would have to be scaled down and were considering making it their last when Hyndburn Council turned down an appeal for funding.

The club had asked for £5,000 to pay for essential health and safety measures, such as road closures and barriers.

In the past, cash was set aside in the authority's leisure services budget as its contribution to the carnival.

But this year the Lions were urged to apply to the Peel and Barnfield Area Council -- only to be told there was not enough money in the pot.

But the North Lancs Training Group came forward to sponsor the carnival, first held in 1926.

Funding has also come from Accent North West housing association and estate agent Buy The House, which has branches in Accrington and Oswaldtwistle.

Harold Hardman, of the Lions, said: "It was getting to the stage where we were saying we can't do it but the North Lancs Training Group got us out of trouble. We would have struggled without them.

"The carnival would still have gone ahead but it would probably have been the last one we did.

"Now, with funding from Accent North West and Buy The House, we are swimming in money. We've never had so much sponsorship!

"It has taken the pressure off and we can spend time planning the event."

He added: "The event raises money for charities and gives Hyndburn people a really great day out."

The event is on Saturday, June 18, and will have a procession through the town from the Globe to Thorneyholme Road, with a fun fair and stalls at Peel Park School.

The Lions have also appealed for volunteers. To help out, call Mr Hardman on 01254 393127.