Plans for an end-of-winter blow out are picking up pace, with a number of local businesses and people already sharing their plans.

Organisers are encouraging as many groups as possible to help prepare for the carnival-style celebration in Penarth of March 2 to March 5.

The Vale brewery Tomos and Lilford have pledged to produce a special beer called called “Carnival - Penarth Pale Ale”.

Rob Lilford, who runs the brewery with Rolant Tomos, said: “We’re delighted to be making this special carnival ale for the forthcoming Penarth Winter Carnival. Every beer should tell a story, and the carnival is a great initiative.”

As well as its own the beer, the two Penarth butchers, Thompson Family Butchers and David Lush Butchers, have both promised to produce special Penarth carnival sausages.

There will be plenty of treats for Pancake night too. Penarth Pier Pavilion is open for youngsters on Pancake Tuesday, March 5 for a special pancake event with support from the Waterloo Tea Rooms, while the Italian Cultural Centre Wales will be teaching children about Italian carnival traditions.

There will be plenty of music to accompany the feasting, with 25-man strong Welsh festival band Wonderbrass playing various events across the town over the festival, finishing with a full band performance on March 5. Wonderbrass are known for their electric blend of New Orleans jazz, ska, and blues with contemporary hip-hop and funk updates.

Those preferring their music a touch more traditional may prefer to sing with the Male Welsh Voice Choir, or the Criw Canu women’s singing group. Both organisations will be holding open practice sessions ahead of time.

Colourful carnival ribbon produced in Pembrokeshire will also be available for decorations and discounts. Perfect for colourful bunting, and many shops say festival-goers wearing the fabric will be in for special offers and discounts.

The festival will open with long-distance cyclist Dave Hann. Inspired by ancient Welsh legends, he will set off on a 200-mile bike ride to Harlech in North Wales bringing news of feasting in Penarth.

A community website with further details will be launched this weekend at www.penarthwintercarnival.strikingly.com