A COLOURFUL parade snaked through the streets of Darwen to mark the start of the annual town gala.

The main road was lined with onlookers who turned out to watch the floats and old vehicles make their way from Anchor Road to the town centre.

More than 3,000 people arrived to enjoy the fun at Darwen Gala 2000 at Borough Road field, which boasted more than 50 charity, craft and trade stalls.

Crowds were also treated to a full programme of entertainment, including acrobats, a fire show, a guest appearance by Rob Charles from Century 105, a beer tent, bungee running and Land Rover trips to Darwen Tower.

The extravaganza continued into the night with disco dancing and a spot by Darwen duo Clockwise.

The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Coun Jack Bury, and his Mayoress, Pamela Rodgers, chose winners from the 16 floats which entered the competition.

Darwen Sure Start scooped the top trophy in the voluntary and charity section with their nursery rhyme theme lorry.

The past, present and future display by Lightbown Street residents came a close second and East Lancashire Hospice took third place with a medical theme. The Abacus Day Nursery float secured first place by giving a view of future trades and professions. Blackburn with Darwen Direct Services parks department came second, followed by the council Highways Department.

Darwen Gala Committee chairman Colin Briggs, who is to step down this year, said: "It was an excellent gala. Even the odd shower didn't manage to spoil it. The event is run solely by volunteers from the town and this was our 20th year. Darweners have proved once again what can be achieved when we pull together.

"The charity stalls all did well and everybody went home happy."

Winners of the prize draw, featuring a limousine trip, a model of the Sunnyhurst pub, Darwen, and a bottle of whisky, will be invited to a presentation ceremony.

Picture: Maureen Holden and Pauline Lishman scrub Rick Yates's back on the Lightbown Street float