Wellington Carnival hailed a big success

Organisers of Wellington Carnival today hailed the event a huge success as thousands flocked to the town.

Hundreds of people also joined the walking parade through the town as part of the spectacle on Saturday – despite the downpours.

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Nearly 4,000 people went along to the Bowring Park Recreation Ground, off Haygate Road, to enjoy the Wellington Unity Carnival.

And for the first time this year a food festival was held which organisers said was a huge hit.

Wellington Councillor Phil Morris-Jones said: "It was a good crowd despite the weather and a similar turnout to previous years, so the rain didn't put people off.

"The food festival seemed to go very, very well as it was the first time we had done it and it seemed to be well received."

He said the rain did affect two dance troupes who had to pull out due to slippery conditions and the parade had to be extended to use a different entrance into the park.

Councillor Morris-Jones added: "The youngsters did incredibly well in the parade because it was at least a mile long from the top of New Street to the park and around the field.

"We do not encourage too many floats in the parade and had about 10 as it is mainly walkers in fancy dress.

"Hundreds of people joined the parade, it seemed to stretch on forever. It was good to see so many youngsters taking part and enjoying themselves. It was a great success with around 50 stalls on the field."

This year's carnival queen Holly Halford, aged nine who attends Randlay Primary School, was crowned on the day.

Councillor Morris-Jones added: "She was absolutely great. We could not have chosen a better carnival queen."

Fears had grown about the future of the carnival after it was called off last year due to a lack of volunteers. However a new organising committee was set up this year with high hopes for the future.

By Judith Sanders