THOUSANDS of people turned out to make Leigh Carnival a huge success last weekend.

Drizzly rain did not put off the crowds on Saturday as revellers flocked to Bedford High School to enjoy a host of attractions and activities. Carnival-goers got the best of the weather on Sunday.

Leigh MP Andy Burnham led his Labour team in a charity It's A Knockout competition on Saturday.

Carnival queen Rebecca Flitcroft was given her crown on Sunday, accompanied by junior queen Chelsea Marsden, princess Emily Aighton, rosebud Shona Glover and pageboy Jake Meredith.

A parade with colourful floats made its way through the streets of Leigh, which was followed by a church service in the marquee on the school field.

Morris dancers and majorettes danced throughout the weekend, and demonstrations in judo and dance kept the crowds entertained. Funfair rides, craft workshops, clowns and stalls ensured no-one was bored. Derian House were collecting funds for the Chorley children's hospice, and the Cats Protection League raised money by painting children's faces.

Organisers hope the event has beaten the £12,000 raised last year. The money goes towards deserving causes in Leigh, including pensioners groups and community events.