A DAZZLING display of colour swept through the streets of Prestwich on Sunday (June 17) as the biggest and best carnival procession in recent years marched its way through the village.

Around 1,000 people, all dressed to impress in character costumes or smart uniform, entertained the crowds as they snaked their way to St Mary's playing fields led by Lancashire Fusiliers Association Band and the Corps of Drums.

And pictured looking resplendent in their gowns during the event are Prestwich's retiring royalty on their last appointment (from left) Carol Hooley (13), millennium princess, Alyshia McAvinnie (9), millennium rosebud, Sharon Cowell (17), Carnival Queen and Katy Driver (11), deputy princess. Organiser of the parade, Janet McAvinue, worked tirelessly to ensure as many groups, individuals and carnival queens as possible took part in the pageant and she made certain the people who lined the streets to watch were not disappointed. And the festival atmosphere continued in the park as the fun-seeking throng were greeted with a vibrant fun fair, stalls, games and attractions to round off four days of carnival festivities.

The previous weekend kicked off the celebrations with a youngsters' football tournament and the gruelling Prestwich Challenge obstacle race.

And on the eve of the big parade young talent was recognised with the Bands in the Park event. On Sunday, there was never a quiet moment throughout the afternoon as members of the Sunshine Team, which this year replaced the traditional carnival committee, kept the momentum going in a number of arenas.

The main arena, compered by Tower FM, played host to regular musical performances from the Prestwich-based all girl group P6, Urban Voice and youth theatre group Class Act. And displays from Bury Aikido, Philips Gymnastic Club, belly dancing and majorettes groups meant the entertainment continued until late in the afternoon.

MP Ivan "The Cat" Lewis also took centre stage for a penalty shoot out but only managed to save a fraction of his recent General Election majority in goals!

Running simultaneously were inflatable table top football competitions, in which the police team put in a valiant effort, and those opting for a touch of elegance were drawn to the Court of Queens, where still in his Manchester City tracksuit Mr Lewis acted as judge along with Inspector David Jones of Prestwich and Whitefield Township, Coun Wilf Davison and the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Coun Paul Nesbit and his wife, Shirley.

Tombola prizes, cake stalls and representation from Prestwich Lions and other organisations completed the picture.

Chairman of the Sunshine Team, Mr David Curtis, said the carnival was a "wonderful success" and added: "The only thing that let us down was the weather but we succeeded in getting people involved.

"We were delighted with the entertainment and everyone did absolutely splendidly with organising the events.

"Apart from the weather this year has got to be the best ever."

Money raised will benefit local causes.