IT WAS third time lucky for Royal Wootton Bassett Carnival organisers as Mother Nature finally decided to be kind after two years of procession day downpours.

Warm weather and blue skies brought out the crowds ready to have some fun in the sun.

“We are really thrilled with the way it went,” said Ceri Pridding, one of organising committee of just eight people. “Everything went without a hitch.

“We have no idea what we have raised but the crowds were good and the buckets were filled. And we had a very good response from businesses to our sponsorship requests.”

The high street had a distinct carnival flavour as families waited at the end of the route from Marlowe Avenue, then the sound of a band in the distance heralded the arrival of the parade.

Bagpipes, majorettes and a samba band all featured, along with walking entries including a little flock of blackbirds from the town’s scout group.

The Major Wrecks gave an impressive show of rhythm and stamina as they sashayed, twirled and side-stepped their way round the route. Spidermen from Bournemouth Carnival Band also proved a crowd pleaser.

One of the entries was the samba band from St Mary’s School in Purton who decided to join in after their village carnival was cancelled this year.

Eileen Kelly had brought her three young grandchildren over from Swindon to see the procession. “It’s been a lovely afternoon,” she said. “The atmosphere has been so friendly, everyone is having a good time.

“The children really enjoyed the parade, especially the spidermen at the end.”

Dave Porter was also with his family. “It was brilliant. You couldn’t have asked for better weather and you can see the effort the organisers have put into this. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

Carnival day started with a display of classic cars on the high street and entertainment, including morris dancers and the town band.Procession judges also went to Miranda House where residents had entered into the spirit of the event with their version of the Royal Wedding.

The day ended with Scarrott’s funfair on the showfield.

Plans for next year and a possible survey to find out how people want the carnival to develop will be discussed in the autumn.