THIS year's Stourbridge Carnival will take inspiration from the World Cup and will feature a 'nations of the world' theme.

The traditional family fun day will be held in Stourbridge town centre on Sunday July 6 - on the same day as the first-ever Black Country Festival.

Carnival attractions will be dotted across the town centre while the new Black Country Festival will see the Coventry Street/Duke Street area showcasing Black Country musicians, crafts and traditions.

Stourbridge Carnival organiser David Harcourt said: "We're looking to have all things Black Country in that area which has never been used to full effect before. It's a great opportunity for the carnival to enhance the day. We're looking forward to seeing the outcome of that. Whether we do it as an annual event we'll have to see."

He said attractions at this year's carnival will include a number of old favourites such as the traditional parade, fun fair rides and an array of stalls and he added: "We'll have quite a few more vintage cars this year."

Lower High Street will also host a retro fair and there will be a host of displays, demonstrations and presentations taking place around the town clock throughout the day, which will be officially opened by the Mayor of Dudley - Councillor Margaret Aston.

The annual carnival princess and rosebud competition will also take place on the morning of the event - starting at 10.30am, with prizes on offer for the winners and runners up and goody bags for all entrants.

Aspiring princesses and rosebuds wishing to take part should register at 10.15am on carnival day.

Entry forms for the parade are available from Mr Harcourt by calling 01384 378209 and must be completed and returned by July 2.

Any groups/organisations wishing to have a stall at the event should call Bob Reynolds on 01384 894520 or 07900 142934.