Drizzle doesn't dampen dazzle at Midsomer Norton

Hundreds braved the drizzle to line the streets for the Midsomer Norton Carnival last night.

The procession was led by the dazzling young Carnival Queen Fredericka Lines, 16, and her attendants.

As the cavalcade of carts and characters lined up on the sodden tarmac of the Westhill Estate it was clear this ancient tradition is far from dying out.

As conflicting music blared from different speakers, men, women and children alike slapped on their makeup and pulled on their flimsy costumes. Up near the front were a gaggle of girls from Shimmer Star Twirlers, a local majorettes club.

Taught by Angela Thomas the 40-strong troop, twirled batons and shook pompoms for the watching crowds. Leading them out was tiny Shannon Maggs, five, who was very proud to be there. Cathryn Tamblyn, 12, said she was so excited the cold and rain didn't bother her.

She said: "I've been in the group ever since it started last year. We've been practising our twirling really hard and we're all very excited."

Tallia Murphy, 10, said: "I love the crowds and the way they cheer and appreciate us and what we do."

The pristine imagine of Barbie was turned on it's head by the raucous members Mordons Carnival Club, which hails from Midsomer Norton.

Stephen Rogers, chairman of the club, said they decided to go with the theme of "Ugly Barbie" and the girls and boys would be looking far from delicate. He said: "We always come to this carnival as it's local and the dancers love it. We're one of the oldest local clubs that still exists and we're proud to be here."

A group of 14 from the Susan Hill School of Dance dressed as lionesses to twirl ribbons and street dance to music from the Lion King.

Holly Davies, 15, said: "I love performing in front of the crowd. We were at Shepton Mallet last night and Wells tomorrow but this is a bit more nerve-racking as we have to dance in front of all our friends."

Luckington Carnival Club, from Coleford, were also out in force with their Starship Enterprise float. Their display poked fun at Star Trek with one member even donning a nappy to be a baby trekker.

The group, has performed at Midsomer Norton carnivals for 30 years.

Leader Ian Jordan said: "Midsomer Norton always look after us in terms of fundraising, so it's nice to give something back.

"This carnival is one of the West's best kept secrets."