EMMERDALE ‘bad boy’ Cain Dingle has pulled out of his scheduled appearance at Accrington Carnival this weekend.

Actor Jeff Hordley was due take part in the street parade and sign autographs for fans at the carnival site at Accrington and Rossendale College campus.

But he has now had to withdraw because of filming commitments.

Festival organisers said he will be replaced by his on-screen sister Lucy Pargeter, also known as Chastity Dingle.

Lucy will be able to meet festival-goers and present medals as well as judge the Hyndburn’s Got Talent contest.

Terry Mills, from the Big Talent Group, said: “Jeff was really looking forward to the carnival this year so you can imagine is very disappointed.

"Lucy, who plays Chastity Dingle, is also a very popular actress and has agreed to stand in for Jeff at this time.

“Jeff would like to apologise to any of his fans who were looking forward to seeing him.”

Accrington Carnival 2011 takes place on Saturday, June 18 at Accrington & Rossendale College with the procession taking place in the town centre.