A COLOURFUL carnival will wind its way through Darlington today.

The return of the Community Carnival will see streets come alive with a vibrant mix of music, drama and dance.

This year, the carnival sports a ‘children’s books and authors’ theme and will begin in the market square at 9.45am with performances from dance schools.

The annual parade will leave the square at 11am and will wind its way to Stanhope Park, where crowds can enjoy live music, a range of stalls and activities.

Disney princesses will mingle with visitors to the park, who can also enjoy children’s entertainment, sports sessions and craft activities. The line-up of live music includes Maddison Lyonette award winners Circus Villains, Los Capitanes and Purple Shark.

David French, chairman of Darlington Community Carnival’s voluntary organising committee, said: “We’re looking forward to seeing how much communities enjoy taking part and experiencing what we have on offer.”