Horwich is gearing up for this weekend's carnival, which organisers promise will be bigger and better than ever.

This year, after a £2,500 grant from Bolton Council, the entire event will be held outside at Station Park, instead of being divided between the Horwich RMI club and surrounding fields.

The carnival starts with a funfair.

Saturday's festivities begin with a bonnie baby show at noon, and a performance from the RJ Majorettes at 1pm.

The semi-final for the talent contest will be held at 2pm and the selection for Miss Horwich and Miss Rivington will take place at 3pm.

At 4pm, the family fun races will start with mums, dads and children taking part in egg and spoon and sack races.

On Sunday, the fancy dress competition will be judged at noon and is open to all ages.

At 12.30pm, entrants to the parade will be judged and at 1pm the parade will leave Ramsbottom Road before going through Horwich and arriving at Old Station Park, off Chorley New Road.

Police health and safety guidance means there will be no floats in the parade.

Carnival committee member Kathy Gilfillan said: "The kids have put so much effort into creating a walking parade and I'm sure people will really enjoy what the kids have to offer."

The talent competition final will be held at 2pm on Sunday, followed by a display from the Bolton Scottish Pipe Band.

The carnival ends at 4pm with a family tug of war.

All proceeds go to Bolton Hospice and the six Horwich primary schools.

The annual athletic and cycle races are being held alongside Horwich Carnival Races.

Another addition to this year's event will be car boot sales on Saturday and Sunday.

Mrs Gilfillan said: "The grant has enabled us to move everything outside and create a show-ground arena and all events will take place on one centre stage in Old Station Park."