The world is coming to Carlisle this summer.

Carlisle Fringe Festival will spill over onto the streets combining the Carlisle Pageant, a Best of Carlisle market, an ancient Proclamation, and a bustling international market.

A dazzling array of colours and giant puppets will be accompanied by music offering 10 days of fun-filled festivities, which organisers hope will become an important part of the international festival calendar.

Graham Main, producer of Carlisle Fringe Festival said they had been dreaming up this idea for a few years in a bid to make the city an event destination in the future.

"We are thrilled that so many partners have signed up to help realise the potential of this incredible city. Combining a number of events to form one amazing festival helps us to make the Carlisle Fringe event more compelling," said Mr Main.

The Carlisle City Council event is being held in partnership with the Electric Theatre Workshop.

It will take over the city starting on August 18, and will feature a heady mix of live entertainment at venues throughout the area.

Carlisle's Old Fire Station, now a local arts and entertainments venue, will play host to more than 20 different shows, including performances from well-known comedians Eleanor Conway and Abi Roberts, as well as a number of live music acts.

The city's streets will feature an action-packed street theatre programme, set to run alongside the festival, as well as a 1950's-style street party celebration, which will feature laden tables spread throughout the city centre on Carlisle Pageant Day.

Carlisle city councillor Anne Quilter, portfolio holder for Culture, Heritage and Leisure, said: "Our hope is that with everyone behind it, the Carlisle Fringe can go on to become an integral part of the international festival festival."

Organisers say a number of businesses have already voiced an interest in playing a part in the festival. A full programme, complete with acts and venues, is set to be announced in July.

Those interested in being involved with the festival can contact organisers on 01228 812611.