DESPITE rain forecast for much of the weekend, organisers are urging festival-goers not to be put off and come out for the annual Maindee Festival.

The Met office have issued a yellow warning for rain for Saturday over much of the UK, including South Wales, but hundreds of Newport residents should still come out for the football-themed Maindee Festiball.

The Festiball programme kicks off from 1pm with music and dance performances over two stages and the all-new spoken word tent from 2pm. A range of delicacies and refreshments will also be on offer from international food stalls and a bar.

Organisers still need volunteers to help out on the parade route and at Maindee Primary School. Volunteers can turn up on the day from 9am at Community House on Eton Road or at the primary school site.

For those not helping or volunteering, you can still be part of the parade by walking the route. Meet at Rodney Parade rugby club at 11am to join the parade and help push one of the huge ball structures along the streets.

Call Alison Starling on 07837 033090 to volunteer.