A Government Minister is urging traders and the public to support a new festival celebrating Warwick.

Dale Butler, who holds the Community and Cultural Affairs portfolio, has organised the We Love Warwick Rubber Tree Festival which will take place today and every Saturday in April between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the grounds of Warwick Post Office.

Mr. Butler said the aim was to get traders selling a variety of wares to congregate in one place after complaints from the public about individual sellers setting up tents on the roadside.

He said it was also about "love and being appreciative of what we have".

So far, 30 vendors have signed up to take part but traders can just turn up on the day. They should aim to be on-site by 9.30 a.m.

Eddie Ming and his percussion group will provide entertainment at noon.

Mr. Butler said: "Hopefully we will get people to come. Hopefully the Rubber Tree Festival will grow and bring the community together.

"I'm hoping that it will take on a life of its own depending on how people respond to it. We are going to take the lead in demonstrating love and respect."