A village carnival has been saved from the axe after traders and residents united.

Organisers of Broadwater Carnival in Worthing feared they might have to scrap the popular event after insurance costs soared from £700 to £2,000.

Penny Keen, chairman of Broadwater Traders' Association, said it couldn't afford to pay for the hike on top of the £4,500 the carnival already cost to stage.

She said: "We thought we might have to cancel it. We just couldn't afford that type of money."

But Broadwater Community Association, which also takes part in the June 28 event, heard of the shopkeepers' plight and made sure its insurance covered them.

Penny is now appealing for organisations to enter floats in the main procession, which will be led by the Romsey Old Cadets Band, whose musicians last year all dressed as chickens.

Other attractions include a flower show, children's disco, funfair and numerous children's rides.

Penny, who can be contacted on 01903 235353, said: "We do bring thousands of extra people into the area."