THOUSANDS of people turned out for this year’s Kidderminster Carnival, enjoying the entertainment, attractions, stalls and sideshows.

Following the crowning of this year’s carnival queen Jessica Homan on the town hall steps, the event on Saturday kicked off at Brinton Park with the first ever walking parade.

Carnival chairman, Steve Walker, said: “We were very pleased with our first walking parade – and are very grateful to those who entered. A lot of thought and effort had gone into their fantastic costumes.

“The parade really did add to the carnival atmosphere as it made its way around the showground and we hope to build on its success next year.

”I would like to thank all those who helped to organise the event, all those who took part and all those who came along to enjoy the day.”

Entertainment included singers Chris Salter and Lauren Alexandra, Sadie Owen accompanied by guitarist Lewis MacGregor, compere Adrian Hughes from Impact 4 Events, Lew’s Disco Karaoke and children’s entertainers Steve Harley and Ronnie Crackers.

There was also a traditional fairground organ, Jennings Brothers fun fair, quad bikes, mini Land Rovers, donkey rides and bouncy castles.

The Harriers in the Community staged their popular penalty shoot-out competition and there were displays from Toni-Jayne Bouncer and her zumba group, Jason Lester Karate, the Silver Shadow Baton Twirlers, Just Dance, Redditch Twirlers, Glades Gymnastics and Dancing Dogs.

In “the zone” organisations concerned with sustainability, ranging from Fairtrade to composting, offered information.

Following the inaugural walking parade, the Best Group award went to Railway Children Childcare Centre while the Best Child award was won by two-year-old Darci Hull, of Alverley.

This year’s carnival will give money to Noah’s Ark Trust for bereaved children, the Odell Trust, for people with learning difficulties, the Kidderminster ExService Association and the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA).

In the programme prize draw, £75 went to number 0511 while second was 0495, earning £25. To claim, call Mr Walker on 07899843228.