CLAIMS of "the best ever" Prestwich Carnival were making the rounds of St Mary's Park long before the event had got into full swing.

The enthusiasm for this year's action-packed show could be felt among the thousands of people who turned out for the two-day event last Saturday and Sunday (June 15-16).

And that good-natured festival feeling was reflected in the magnificent parade that entertained the folk lining the town's streets.

Almost 70 entrants in the colourful procession, including decorated floats and cars, marching bands and majorettes, meant the Prestwich Carnival parade was the largest in recent years.

And pictured in their colourful costumes are Zehara's Urban Gypsies, a tribal belly dance group, with Katie Carmichael in the foreground.

Parade organiser Janet McAvinue said: "It was the biggest we have ever had. It was absolutely marvellous and the turnout was excellent for both the parade and the Court of Queens, considering there were five other carnivals in the region on the same day. We had about 67 entrants compared to last year's 40-odd."

As the massive procession made its way towards St Mary's Park, crowds followed for a fun-filled day of entertainment and attractions.

The main event was the carnival show arena which featured professional tribute acts Abba Arrival and Elvis Williamson, performing alongside a showcase of local talent.

Prestwich all-girl group P-6 were there as well as members of the youth theatre group, Class Act, and about ten performances from young singers and dancers who had been hand-picked for the event by organisers, the Sunshine Team.

Sports fans were kept busy with the finals of the youth football tournament and a touch of tradition was introduced by the Court of Queens.

With a selection of stalls and games and the popular fun fair, funseekers of all ages were accommodated.

Chairman of the Sunshine Team, David Curtis, said: "It was fun to be there on Sunday, it was the best ever."

He paid tribute to the "superb" parade and live show and commended the wealth of support offered to the youngsters events, such as the football tournament held on the Saturday and the young performers on stage.

He said: "We have received a lot of favourable comments about the event. I think the strength in Prestwich Carnival lies in the children who take part as they bring along their parents to support them. We always aim for 10,000 visitors over the two days and I think we have achieved that. It was a wonderful success."

Prestwich Carnival Queen Elect, who was crowned on the day, Joanne Freeman got off to a shaky start to her reign. A recurring trapped nerve in her foot sent her off balance as she left her car and she took a tumble. Joanne bravely continued her duties sporting a limp!

Parade results:

Best Band on Parade: the Lancashire Fusiliers.

Best Float: the 1st Lancashire Mohawks.

Best Queen's Car: Radcliffe Queen Andrea.

Best Junior Queen's Car: NRCO Junior Queen Cheryl.

Best Princess's Car: East Lancs Personality Princess Rebecca.

Best Rosebud's Car: McGowanetts Rosebud Danielle.

Best Car and Trailer: Stalybridge Festival Princess Elect Jade.