More than a hundred acts - including a giant skeleton - have put themselves forward to perform at this year's Cowley Road Carnival - Oxfordshire's biggest free public event.

Organisers, who are putting together a programme of musical, dance and theatrical performers to be involved in the event on Sunday, July 6, have been overwhelmed by the response.

Event manager Ian Nolan said: "It has been fantastic - there are some really amazing groups that have registered their interest.

"Last year, there were nowhere near this many people coming forward - it is definitely a record number."

The carnival, which will have a masquerade theme this year, attracts crowds of up to 25,000 and it is hoped a total of 2,000 people will take part in a colourful procession along Cowley Road.

As well as the parade, a whole host of activities will be held, with five stages planned.

To accommodate the high levels of interest, an "informal" stage will be set up at the corner of Leon Close, featuring Latino performances including Brazilian dancers and salsa groups.

A total of six acts will perform on each of four main stages, with more at various locations throughout the day.

Mr Nolan estimated a total of 80 acts would be involved and a further 50 in the procession - but was remaining tight-lipped about the line-up, which will be announced on June 10.

He said: "It is all absolutely top secret - but it will be really eclectic.

"We always try to be as diverse as possible with the programming and this year the rock stage is going to be very much a party stage.

"There's going to be some new music and interesting groups.

"There will be a really good, party atmosphere and I am looking forward to that."

A series of workshops is currently being held to construct giant puppets and masks for the parade.

This week, Charles Beauchamp, from London-based Mandinga Arts, has been working with local artists to make the giant skeleton, which will be taking part in the parade.

He said: "It is wonderful to be involved. The great thing about Cowley Road Carnival is it is very much a community carnival and everybody seems to know each other.

"It is very inspiring for me - everyone involved has such experience and dedication."

He is hoping to return to Oxford to take part in the event itself.

Workshops will be held on Thursday and Friday, June 26 and 27, at Fusion, in Princes Street.

Saturday workshops will be at Rose Hill Children's Centre next Saturday and again on June 21 and 28, and at Donnington Doorstep Family Centre on June 21 and 28.

Organisers are still looking for volunteers to help with stewarding, stage managing and general help.

Anyone interested in being involved should email carnival@eastoxford.com