RAIN showers did not dampen spirits as Bewdley carnival entertained children, families and adults.

The event featured a float procession, animals, sports activities and live music and dance, and winners for the best fancy dress costume, shop window display and parade float were chosen.

Dignitaries including the mayors of Bewdley, Kidderminster and Stourport, Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier and chairman of Wyre Forest District Council Fran Oborski were present alongside the crowds of residents and visitors.

Mayor of Bewdley, Derek Killingworth, said: “It was a smashing day and I was impressed with the turnout of the public considering the weather.

“It proves that when the community gets together and works for the community we end up with wonderful days like this.

“It really showed what localism and the big society are all about.”

Mr Killingworth also praised the Bewdley Carnival Committee for its efforts in organising the event on Saturday (June 7).

He added: “We were rather worried having seen forecasts of a thunder storm and feared it could be called off, but the carnival committee kept it on and did a sterling job overall.”

Sue Matthews, publicity officer of the committee, said: “Although the weather was a bit disappointing at least the rain held off for the parade and the sun even shone during the afternoon’s entertainment.

“A good time was had by all that came along and supported the carnival.”

Winners of the best parade floats were Severnside School of Dance, Bewdley Floral Art and Riverside Vets in the youth group, sport and social and private and commercial categories respectively.

Emily Yates and Theo Yates won the fancy dress competition while Brian Brickstock’s mini traveller was named best vintage car.

First prize for the top shop window display went to Notions, with Scoops runner-up and Vanilla and Park Royal jointly taking third place.