Organisers say the amount of red tape involved in setting up the carnival parade increases every year and to make it worth the hard work, more people need to get involved.

Carnival secretary Linda Stokes said: “We only have four floats registered at the moment and we used to get into double figures. Unless people are prepared to take more of an interest and start putting on floats then, because of all the hassle involved in planning it, it’s just not going to be worth it.”

The organisers – a carnival committee of volunteers – this year have to sort out insurance for every float, find cones to put on the road and apply for each road closure – a job the police did for them in previous years.

Mrs Stokes said: “Everyone has a good time at the carnival but people really judge it on the parade and the amount of floats is something out of our control.”

As well as the parade, the committee members have organised a fun-packed programme of events to take place in the run up to the carnival day on Sunday July 12.

On Wednesday July 9 there will be scruffy dog show from 6.30pm at Kellingley Social Centre.

On Thursday July 10 there will be under 12s and under 14s rugby matches from 6pm at Knottingley RUFC on Howard’s Field.

On Friday July 11, there will be a swimming gala from 1pm by Knottingley Swimming Club and on Saturday July 12 will be carnival day, with a funfair, stalls, and Tailwagger Dog Club’s display team.

On Sunday July 13 there will be a church service at the United Reformed Church in Knottingley at 6pm.

The carnival queen this year will be Sophie Bavester, a student at Knottingley High School and Sports College.

To decorate a float, free of charge, contact Linda Stokes on 01977 675110.