SIDMOUTH is set for the return of its legendary Caribbean Night after a five year absence tomorrow.

The sound of the summer reggae spectacular, featuring thousands of revellers, will again fill the grounds of Knowle thanks to a town man intent on providing residents with a top-notch community event.

Event mastermind Ben Waring hopes more than 4,000 people will turn out for the fun- and has told Sidmouth revellers its not too late to land a ticket.

The Real Thing and Hurricane Force will headline the reggae bonanza, while Heart FM DJs Chris Dinnis and Kevin Kane will front the festivities.

Security and fire protection expert Ben, who runs Temple Street based business Safeguard, said: “Caribbean Night was something I loved and really enjoyed when I was a youngster, I’m so excited to have it back. I wanted to do something for the community.

“A massive amount of work has been done.

“This isn’t about making money, it’s about giving local people something to be proud of.

“We want it to happen every year, grow it on a good reputation, and for it to be an on-going success.”

Ben Waring said a “massive” stage with a weatherproof area for revellers and a 15 meter bar will be in place.

Tickets have been selling fast for the event since it was granted a license in April.

Ben has struck a deal with FolkWeek chiefs that will see the Bulverton campsite used as a Caribbean Night car park- with a free bus service transporting event-goers to Knowle and back.

The Herald revealed last week how a successful Caribbean Night return could see the revival of another lost tradition- the town’s Christmas Carnival.

“Our objective to keep as much traffic out of the heart of Sidmouth as possible,” said Ben, “We don’t want the Caribbean Night Revival having anything other than a positive effect.

“If the event is a full house then we will be bringing back the Christmas Carnival.”

Ben said he expects a late rush today and tomorrow, and said tickets will be available on the night, and won’t be more expensive.

The town’s Carnival Queen will be crowned at the event as per Caribbean Night tradition.

Food will be supplied by the Educated Pig and O’ Hanlons Brewery will provide the bar.

Anybody under the age of 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult to the event. Organisers have paid for an extra police presence to aid its smooth running. Gates open at 5 pm with advanced ticket holders admitted first. Performances will begin at 6pm.

“We want to see plenty of fancy dress, the forecast for the night is dry and warm,” added Ben.