Excitement is mounting in Helston as the town gears up for the biggest day in its social calendar.

This time next week, there will be thousands of people lining the streets of the town - all keen to join in the festivities of Flora Day.

The bunting is already up, shops have been redecorated and last-minute alterations are being made to hats and dresses.

Around 140 couples will be taking part in the main dance of the day - the Midday Furry - with some Helstonians travelling thousands of miles to be part of the occasion.

It will also be a momentous Flora Day for Helston Town Band musical director John Hitchens, who will be leading the band for the first time.

Work on a new sound system for the big day was delayed, but it is hoped a new recording of the famous tune, and static speakers instead of the old hand-held variety, will ensure the dancers, and the watching crowds, keep in touch with the band.

Chris Oliver, secretary of the Helston Flora Day Association, said it was largely a question of "wait and see".

"It is almost impossible to test a new system properly until the day itself, but we hope the worst dead-spots will be improved," he said.

"Other than that, Flora Day will be much the same as ever - which is the whole beauty of the day."

The band, and some of the town's youngsters, were due to be getting in the Flora Day mood today, with the traditional May Day dances.

An integral part of the build-up to May 8, the players and their followers were expected to be out on the town's streets early this morning and again this evening.