PLANS are starting to take shape for Colchester Carnival.

The first business to sponsor the event has signed up.

Essex law company, Fisher Jones Greenwood, has offered bronze-level backing.

It is one of four ways to sponsor the carnival, taking place on July 16.

Marion Knocker, the company’s residential conveyancer, said: “We like to do things to support the community.

“We are modern and friendly and wanted to show lawyers can be fun.

“Colchester has supported us and we wanted to give something back and show people we are approachable.

“We like to be first at most things!”

Carnival secretary Dan Woodruff said: “We are pleased a well-known business in Colchester is supporting us and we hope for more of the same.

“We are aware Fisher Jones Greenwood supports many local causes. To have them on board is a great boost.”

The main sponsorship packages on offer are: * Bronze – £250, which includes complimentary procession entry, a stall at the family day, a quarter-page advert in the carnival programme and mention on the event’s website.

* Silver – £500. Complimentary procession entry, a stall at the family day, a half-page advert in the programme and mention on the website.

* Gold – £1,000. Complimentary procession entry, a stall at the family day, a half-page advert in the programme and mention on the website, plus a table for ten at the Round Table’s gala dinner in September.

Sponsorship of one of the eight procession categories is available at £250.

Of that, £100 will go to the category winner and the rest to carnival funds. These sponsors will each be asked to provide a trophy. There will be one overall winner from the eight categories.

Lorries offered to carry floats
A FLEET of lorries is being offered to the carnival for free by Systematic Logistics International.

The business, based in Old Ipswich Road, Ardleigh, has said it can provide between six and nine vehicles, along with drivers, for the procession.

Director Andrew Triolo said: “As a lad, Colchester Carnival was a wonderful sight to see.

“I remember thoroughly enjoying the day and what it did for the town. If we could get something close to that again, it would be marvellous. If the company can do something to help achieve that, it would be great.”