Dazzling West carnival processions draw crowds

A blustery autumn night was warmed by the glow of a stream of dazzling floats as dozens of entries blazed a trail though Ilminster this weekend.

Crowds lined the streets, armed with deckchairs and stools, awaiting the annual extravaganza as the final touches were put to face paints and the last light bulbs were screwed in place on Saturday night before troupes of baton-twirling majorettes marched through the town centre, leading in the sparking main parade.

Nine-year-old Sadie Smith, from Yeovil, came along to watch the extravaganza with her family.

She said: "One of my friends in on a float, I've come to see her. I really like all the costumes and I like dressing up. The music is really good as well."

Spectators had come from far and wide to Ilminster.

John Pope, 71, had travelled from Weymouth to see the carnival for himself.

He said: "We've been in Somerset to visit friends so we thought we'd come along.

"I've never been to a carnival before actually so I wanted to see what it was all about.

"Ilminster is a nice town and it's good to see so many people have come out with their families and are having fun, it's a good atmosphere."

Ilminster-based Harlequins Carnival Club continued its run of success with its stunning Festival of the Lion King float, sweeping the board and taking home six trophies, including best feature float, best costume and best musical float.

Rascals Junior Carnival Club was also celebrating after winning another clutch of cups for its spooky Fright Night float.

Children as young as seven impressed the judges with their energy and enthusiasm as well as make-up and float design ,and their dedication was rewarded with three trophies, including the prestigious Spirit of Carnival award.

The hero of the night was 17-year-old Tasha Francis who broke her arm after an accident at home on Saturday afternoon but battled on in a sling to take her place in the parade aboard the cheeky St Trinian's float by Poppe Inne Carnival Club from Tatworth near Chard. Supported by pals Zoe Daniels, 16, and Emily Marshall, 15, Tasha showed true carnival spirit.

Xtreme Carnival Club sent shivers down the spine with its ghoulish Demons in the Dark entry, proving popular with the judges, as well as the crowd, to win best local walking entry and best group.

The carnival celebrations continued as Gillingham hosted its own illuminated street party and revellers were treated to a spectacular parade featuring a host of local carnival clubs and youth groups.

The trophy for best in carnival and two other awards went to the Hot Rock Carnival Club for its rip-roaring Firecracker entry.

Tisbury Swimming Club triumphed in the under-18s feature class with Willy Wonka's Oompa Loompa Party.