ORGANISERS of Cowley Road Carnival have issued a desperate plea for more volunteers just days before the event.

East Oxford is set to come alive on Sunday when the annual summer festival returns to the city.

But Cowley Road Works, the team behind the carnival, is still looking for about 40 residents to help raise cash and volunteer on the day.

It comes weeks after organisers warned next year’s event may have to be scaled back unless more people pledge support.

Volunteer co-ordinator Katie Herring said: “We try our hardest to make sure the carnival happens but if we don’t get the support from the local community, it could mean it’s scaled back.

“I think it would be disappointing because we have worked so hard to make sure the event is bigger than last year.”

The 27-year-old said she has recruited about 80 volunteers, but needs at least 120 people to help during the carnival festivities.

She said about 30 more people are needed to volunteer as stewards during the carnival procession.

Miss Herring, from Kingston Bagpuize, said volunteers are also needed at the end of the day to help clear the area, along with people who can collect cash during the festivities.

Organisers have raised more than £92,000 of their £120,000 target but Miss Herring said a lack of volunteers could hamper fundraising efforts.

Crowds of more than 45,000 poured into East Oxford’s streets last year, making it the biggest carnival to date.

Newly-crowned Miss Oxfordshire Layla Claridge has pledged to support the cause and will volunteer during her first visit to the carnival.

She said: “The carnival brings the community together. It also attracts others to the city which is great for industry, tourism and the economy. Without the volunteers it cannot happen.”

Stagecoach is giving carnival volunteers free travel on the day and they will also be treated to a meal at Cowley Road’s The First Floor Restaurant.

Email volunteers@cowleyroadworks.org to get involved.