BEST-SELLING Stourbridge author Miranda Dickinson will be opening this year’s Stourbridge Carnival.

The Fairytale of New York and Welcome to My World author, who lives in Wollaston, will be guest of honour at the event taking place on Sunday July 3.

Miranda, aged 38, said she was “delighted” to be asked to open the traditional family fun day which this year will feature a beach theme complete with sand pit, donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows.

She said: “Stourbridge is a fantastic town and I'm very proud to be involved in this special day.”

The rising literary star will also be judging the carnival princess competition, which will kick off the carnival proceedings at 10.15am.

The fun day, now in its 24th year, will also include live bands, dance displays, vintage vehicles, dog show, fun fair rides, a host of stalls and the traditional parade around the town which will assemble in Lower High Street at 12.30pm, winding up in the main arena at around 1pm - when the event will officially be declared open.

Organiser David Harcourt is encouraging members of the public to turn out in force and support the event. He said: “There’ll be lots of things going on and it’s a free day out. We’re in our 24th year and there’s never been a charge to come into the carnival.”

Groups or organisations wishing to enter the parade or have a stall at the event can call David Harcourt on 01384 378209 or fill in one of the forms supplied.