PREPARATIONS for the tar barrel run at Hatherleigh Carnival in November begin in earnest on Wednesday April 27, with the first meeting of the year.

The age-old tradition of tar barrel pulling involves a team of local men pulling three flaming tar barrels through the town on a sledge, originally intended to ward off evil spirits.

The meeting starts at 8.30pm at Hatherleigh Cricket Club.

People over 16 who are interested in becoming a puller are invited along.