Entries are now open for a talent show that will be held at a VIP-style fundraiser to raise cash for the Party on the Prom.

What has been billed “Deal’s premier red carpet event”, takes place at the Hole in the Roof pub on Friday, June 12.

John Trickey, chairman of Deal, Walmer and Kingsdown Regatta Association, which runs the carnival, said: “ This year, instead of having the band which usually headlines the Party on the Prom playing, there will be a talent contest run by Terry Cutting of Mark 1 Music.

He said the event will be heavily supported by Deal’s mayor, Cllr Adrian Friend.

There will be prizes for the winners and the chance to take part in a showcase performance where the audience decides.

Cash raised will go towards staging the Party on the Prom on Wednesday, July 29.

It is the most expensive event in Regatta week to put on, and DWKRA battles every year to get the cash to cover it. It receives little public funding, and that it does get has reduced in recent years despite ever rising costs.

This year, it has accepted a grant of £500 from Deal Town Council, half what it got last year.

Mr Trickey said: “It goes to show how important the red carpet event is to keep the Party on the Prom going.”

The Deal Regatta Court will be at the bash. They are: Miss Deal (senior queen) Kira Stewart, 17, Princesses : Freya Bugden, 17, and Ruby Smith, 14; junior queen

Georgia Brown, 10, junior princesses Ellie Watson, 11, and Mia Whiting, 11. Rosebud queen is Evie Brown.

The Red Carpet event starts at 8pm until late. Tickets £8, which includes a buffet.

Tickets and entry forms are available at the Hole in the Roof pub, the Mercury office (both in Queen Street, Deal) and Mark 1 Music, Victoria Road, Deal.