THESE fine looking vehicles are some of the wacky inventions set to lead this year’s Cowley Road carnival.

Organisers of Oxfordshire’s biggest public event are planning a line-up of magnificent machines, including a seven-seater bike, for the July 4 festivities.

Although the road will be closed to traffic, a parade of unusual contraptions flanked by musicians and robot dancers will set off from the Plain roundabout to wend its way to Manzil Way Gardens over the course of an hour.

Last year the carnival, which regularly attracts 30,000 people, was switched to South Park because of concerns over cost and organisation.

The move sparked criticism from Cowley Road traders and residents.

However, this year organisers Cowley Road Works are holding two events, with the main carnival procession involving 14 schools still planned to take place in South Park at 3pm.

The Cowley Road procession is set to start at noon with seven sound systems and dozens of traders’ stalls and pubs opening their doors to keep the carnival atmosphere going.

Among contraptions registered for the event so far are “pimped up” bikes, skateboarders, an ice-cream van on a trike and a space rocket. But organisers want more people to create wacky vehicles – not powered by fossil fuels – to make the procession memorable.

Procession co-ordinator Katie Wilson said: “I’ve been amazed by the contraptions people have come up with so far, but we’d like to see lots more people getting involved.

“This is an opportunity for groups and individuals to create a spectacular procession and I’d like to see some wacky wheelbarrows, beautiful buggies, green powered floats and lots of other vehicles taking part.”

The magnificent machines will be judged by a panel and prizes will be awarded to people riding the most inventive, best looking and most ingeniously powered vehicles.

The Oxford Cycle Workshop is taking part with a seven-seater, three-wheeled bike from Holland.

Mechanic Jonty Semper said: “Our bike always gets people interested and is great for getting people up for a party.

“We can fit a drum in the middle of the bike and we’re hoping to get some form of a live band on it to create some noise too.

“We’re pleased to see the carnival returning to the Cowley Road.

Anyone who wants to enter a magnificent machine should email procession@cowleyroadcarnival.co.uk by Friday, June 25.