THE first carnival in Wantage for 25 years is set to be held this weekend.

Entertainment at Ray’s Carnival on Sunday will include bouncy castles and other inflatable fun, a petting zoo, live music and a range of food stalls.

The fun kicks off at 11am with a Viking-themed parade by children from King Alfred’s Academy.

The carnival has been organised by local charity champion Ray Collins.

He said: “All we need is the weather and the great and good of Wantage to turn up.”

Money from the event will go to Seesaw, Cancer Research, Wantage CE School, Charlton Acorns and Sobell House Hospice, Oxford.

Tickets for the grand prize draw to win a TV and DVD player, a washing machine and a luxury hamper are available from Peter B Ledbury in Grove Street now and on the day.

In an added effort Mr Collins will be walking 55 miles on the day from Winchester, where King Alfred is believed to have been buried, to his birthplace, Wantage.

He also made a special visit to the Two Cocks Brewery in Berkshire which brewed a special ale – Ray’s Pride of Wantage – which will be on sale at The King Alfreds Head, The Bear Hotel, Abingdon Arms, Royal Oak, The Swan,The Bell Inn and The Cellar Bar.

The Wantage Carnival Queen will be presented to the town at 3pm.