EPIC volunteers who helped bring carnival fever to the heart of East Oxford last year have been praised for their work.

The Cowley Road Works team, which organises the annual Cowley Road Carnival, was one of nine voluntary groups across the country shortlisted in the national Epic Awards.

The group said it was "thrilled" and is now calling on revellers to cast their votes to crown it winners of the People's Choice award.

It comes after more than 120 volunteers dedicated more than 630 hours to help get the annual extravaganza on the road last July.

Cowley Road Works volunteer coordinator Katie Herring said: "We are thrilled to be shortlisted for an Epic Award and the Cowley Road Carnival is indeed epic.

"What is more, it requires an epic effort from all involved, including an active team of supporters and volunteers, raising funds, organizing and stewarding the events. Without them carnival couldn’t happen."

Carnival lovers have until March 23 to vote for the group in the awards, which celebrate the work of voluntary organisations, before the winner is announced at a prize-giving ceremony in Cardiff on April 2.

Cowley Road Works also has the chance of winning a host of prizes, which previously included gift vouchers, mentoring, art supplies and cash.

Miss Herring added: "Being shortlisted for this award is like being given a huge pat on the back and well done to us all. The whole community can feel proud of what is achieved in bringing everyone together in creating carnival."

Organisers are looking for volunteers to get involved with all this year's pre-carnival events and activities, as well as helping on the day.

Miss Herring added: "Volunteering to help with the carnival is bags of fun. There are lots of different ways you can help – including with events over the coming months on the run up to the big day itself."

Churchgoers from Emmanuel Church have volunteered with the carnival team for the past two years, acting as as crowd marshals and hosting festive carol fundraisers.

Robert Grayson, of Emmanuel Church, said: "Cowley Road Carnival brings together thousands of people from across our local communities and beyond in a colourful celebration of our rich diversity. It gives local people lots of opportunities to give a little bit back to their community by volunteering to help run the event.

"We have been delighted to be part of the team of volunteers and are looking forward to this year's event."

Last month, Cowley Road Works announced this year's festival theme would be All The World's A Stage, inspired by the work of playwright William Shakespeare.

Merrymakers are expected to gather in their thousands along Cowley Road and its nearby streets for the festivities on Sunday, July 10.

Vote online at shortlist.epicawards.co.uk and email volunteers@cowleyroadworks.org to get involved.