Fairground will kick off Hartlepool Carnival in style

Hartlepool Hawks cheerleading squad perform at the opening of the 2015 Headland Carnival. Picture by FRANK REID

Murphy’s fair returns to the Headland for the start of 2016’s packed programme of events.

A small team of volunteers have been hard at work for months organising events to help people of all ages – especially the children – have a great time.

It all starts tomorrow with the opening of John Murphy’s giant fair on Town Moor between 1pm and 2pm.

Civic dignitaries are due to help launch the fair along with energetic displays from the Hartlepool Hawks cheerleading team.

Next week sees a series of events leading up to Carnival Day itself on Saturday, August 6.

A Hartlepool Carnival Committee spokesman said: “Everything is now in place and we are looking forward to welcoming people to the Headland and joining in all the events.

“The carnival quiz nights have been running for several weeks and are a resounding success.

“We would like to thank all of the traders and businesses for their donations and of course the people for their continued support.

“Without them we would not be able to do what we do.”

Among the events taking place next week is a Family Treasure Dig on Monday, August 1, on the Fish Sands from 10am-noon.

Youngsters have to dig for buried doubloons in exchange for cash prizes.

Also on Monday, the Harbour of Refuge (Pot House) is holding Sign Language activities for children aged up to eight at 1pm-2pm.

Register at www.eventstop.co.uk/event/13/creative_kidz_sign_0-4yrs and www.eventstop.co.uk/event/14/creative_kidz_sign_5-8yrs

Tuesday, August 2, sees the popular children’s Sandcastle Design competition on the Fish Sands from 10am-noon. It is free to enter and there are cash prizes.

The same day The Duke of Cleveland is holding Pirate Hat Making from 1pm-2pm for children aged four plus.

Carnival organisers are hoping for lots of entries in this year’s new-look Best Dressed House, Business and Garden competitions. Judging takes place on Friday, August 5.

Register at www.eventstop.co.uk/event/9/best_dressed_garden, www.eventstop.co.uk/event/10/best_dressed_house and www.eventstop.co.uk/event/11/best_dressed_business

Organisers are also appealing for extra volunteers to come forward and help with events, particularly on Carnival Day, even for a couple of hours.

Call 07528 001675.