THE team behind Wantage's biggest annual party have officially started the countdown to this year's event.

Wantage Carnival organiser Ray Collins launched the 2019 event on Sunday with some of this year's hundreds of performers and volunteers.

Among his crew were some of the young stars of the town's American Dance School and Mayer School of Irish Dance.

Both of the groups will be performing at this year's carnival on Sunday, June 9.

Also joining the launch event were the two guitarists from the Undercovers, who will play live on the day alongside the Oxfordshire Rock Choir and CU Tuesday.

As usual there will also be market stands, food stalls, a licensed bar and the beloved VW Gin and Prosecco bar, alongside the giant funfair.

The day kicks off with the annual parade starting at 11.45am.

All proceeds will go to The Ray Collins Charitable Trust, which helps deserving good causing in and around Wantage with donations and volunteer assistance.

Find out more and get updates online at raycollinstrust.org