POPULAR tunes by Cole Porter will raise the curtain on this year's Kidderminster Carnival next month.

The concert, by the West Midland Light Orchestra, follows the sell-out success of last year's summertime special featuring the music of George Gershwin.

The recital will take place at 7.30pm on Friday, June 15, the night before the carnival, at Kidderminster Town Hall, conducted by musical director Hilary Summers.

Vocalists will include Jonathan Darby, Claire Worboys and John Hutton.

The pianist will be Brian Hadley and the compere will be orchestra president Peter Tomlinson.

Profits from the event, along with those from the carnival, will go to Wyre Forest Dial-A-Ride, the district's door-to-door bus service for the disabled.

Tickets are available from the council shop at Kidderminster Library, Hunters of Oxford Street, and Stourport Photo Centre. They are also available from Bewdley Tourist Information Centre.

Anyone wanting a stall at the carnival's Brinton Park showground, or to enter the street parade as a pedestrian, or with a float, trolley float or vintage/classic vehicle, should contact Colin Hill on 01562 751634.