THE countdown has begun to this year's Adlington Carnival.

Carnival weekend starts on Friday night and is followed by two days of fabulous fun and entertainment for all the family.

The show has spanned four decades since being launched in 1972, attracting a host of top quality celebrities form the world of entertainment and sport, including Cannon and Ball and Frank Bruno, to name just two, and a whole array of soap stars from Coronation Street, Neighbours and Emmerdale, for example.

This year, show bosses have signed up another top act -- Andrew Whyment, better known as Coronation Street's Kirk.

The traditional Friday evening bingo kicks off the eagerly-awaited event.

But the show begins in earnest the following day, Saturday, when the ever-popular procession takes to the streets, creating a real carnival atmosphere.

Saturday sees a myriad attractions, such as the Derby Serenaders, Coronation's Street's Kirk, royalty crowning and, of course, the hugely popular cabaret in the marquee.

This year's cabaret acts are Tamla Motion -- four lads producing amazing vocals and harmonies with fully choreographed routines.

Trinity -- a girl fronted trio from Liverpool, playing the hits of Tina Turner, Shania Twain, Sister Sledge, Donna Summer and other disco divas.

Dance Odyssey -- three girls and a lad getting you to boogie along to 70s disco favourites plus up to date modern dance chart.

Janice Yorke -- a brilliant vocalist and comedienne.

The non-stop entertainment carries on the following day, Sunday, with the likes of five-a-side football, the Border Outlaws western show team and a baby show in the marquee . . . and much much more.

Whichever way you turn, you'll find fun and entertainment in abundance. You simply won't be able to get away from it.

So make your way to Adlington this weekend and see for yourself why the carnival is a not-to-be-missed extravaganza of entertainment.

Visit the website www.adlingtoncarnival.co.uk for more details.