THE countdown has begun to this year's Devizes carnival fortnight which starts on August 21 with a show in the Corn Exchange and ends on September 1 with a procession of floats around the town.

Loz Samuels artistic director of Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts is delighted Arts Council England has awarded £78,474 towards its events in 2018 and 2019 but fundraising continues to bring fireworks back to the Confetti Battle on August 29.

Last year there was disappointment when fireworks were taken off the programme so a local giving page was set up to raise £1,500. But this is still some way from its target.

Ms Samuels said: "Each year, thousands crowd the Devizes Market Place for an hour of complete madness at the Confetti Battle. Last year was no different. We had one of the best attendances we have seen in many years, and everyone had a fantastic time. However we know a few of you were disappointed as there were no fireworks, so how about helping us to bring them back this year? Donations needed - large and small - you can help to stage a staggering spectacular fireworks."

But she is delighted with Arts Council cash which came from the Lottery Fund. She said: "I was so excited to get notification that our application has been successful. I’ve been talking to some amazing acts and am really looking forward to bringing them to Devizes and inspiring our appreciative audiences.

"It’s such a privilege to be able to continue to work with our amazing volunteers and see the town so vibrant during the Festival Fortnight as a result of all their hard work. We will be introducing some ticketed shows this year, as funding an entirely free programme is becoming increasingly difficult. These shows are really very exciting and all feature artists that have worked here at the street festival in the past.”

There are plans to celebrate 250 years of contemporary circus and acts will be out and about at the Confetti Battle. Indoor shows will also be held including Caulraphobia at the Wharf Theatre on August 28.

The International Street Festival will be held on the Green on August 26 and in the Market Place on August 27 and there will be Big Top acts on The Green from august 24 to August 27.

Last year a Colour Rush race was held before the Confetti Battle and this is being repeated this year. It will start at Green Lane playing field and end in The Market Place in time for the battle at 8pm.

To find out how to donate and full event details go to www.docadevizes.org.uk