A LUCKY resident could be driving around in a new car in less than a month’s time.

The Weymouth Carnival Draw has been launched – and the top prize is a fabulous Mazda2 worth £9,820.

Draw tickets are on sale including at Haven Littlesea, where the car is on display, and Wey Valley Mazda in Dorchester Road.

Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Paul Kimber was the first person to buy a book of tickets after the car was delivered to the holiday park.

He was watched by Weymouth Carnival Queen finalists Michaela Frampton, Natalie Round and Sally Anne Walker.

The car has been supplied to the carnival committee by Wey Valley Mazda whose sales manager James Katenkamp said the Mazda2 was the garage’s best-selling model and won the World Car of the Year award in 2008.

Mr Katenkamp added: “We have been serving the local area for nearly 40 years now and it’s great to be able to get involved with the community for this historic, and fun, annual event.”

Carnival draw organiser Alex Goracy said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been able to secure such a prestigious first prize for this year’s draw.

“The draw will once again take place at 10pm on The Esplanade after the fireworks display on carnival day and one lucky person will be driving around shortly after in this magnificent car.”

Mr Goracy added: “The draw as always plays a major part in raising funds for local good causes and we hope to sell a record number of tickets this year to swell the carnival fund.”

Second prize is a family holiday with Haven, courtesy of Haven Littlesea, and the third prize is a child’s ride-on car donated by Weymouth toy shop Howleys Toymaster.

The Rotary Clubs of Weymouth, whose members make up the new-look carnival committee, will be selling draw tickets on The Esplanade in early August and during the days running up to Weymouth Carnival on Wednesday, August 18.