Tim calls on locals to come and back Torchlight 2013

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has issued a rallying call to encourage local people to come forward as volunteers, supporters and helpers for this year's resurrected Kendal Torchlight Carnival.

Event organisers are searching for 160 people to help marshal the event, as well as others to work as members of the organising team. Last year saw the event cancelled for the first time in its 42 year history due to a lack of marshals and other volunteers, causing huge disappointment to hundreds of local families.

Torchlight Night is the one night in every year when Kendal can promote itself in Carnival fashion, and show off at its brightest and best. The people, businesses and community groups of Kendal and our surrounding districts make Torchlight successful.

The Carnival has entertained and excited local adults and children alike with its array of floats, bands, dancers and other acts since 1970, and with this year's event planning to live up to this rich history Tim is calling on local people to help guarantee that its return is a triumphant success.

Commenting, Tim said: "Torchlight has been a wonderful event for the local community for many years, and last year's cancellation was an enormous shame for the whole of our community. For this event to be a success it relies on every one of us supporting or helping the event. I know that together we can make Torchlight 2013 a success but it depends on people coming forward. If you are interested please do get in touch with the organising team - they need your help!

"Torchlight is so important to us - it brings people together and it would be a real disappointment if we couldn't bring Torchlight back because of a lack of volunteers. I'll be there, but I need local people who can help in any way to get in touch with the fantastic team already in place and help make sure Torchlight 2013 ranks among the best ever."

The event has been resurrected by the current Torchlight organisers but help is still needed to raise funds, promote the event and marshal the procession. Prospective volunteers should contact Vicki Wright on 07846 973857, or via email at vicki.wright@kendal-torchlight-carnival.co.uk

To enter a float in the procession or make a donation, contact Simon McElroy on 07721 906030 or simon@kendal-torchlight-carnival.co.uk