THE annual Bewdley Carnival last Sunday (June 8) was hailed a huge success despite the lack of sunshine.

The carnival started with one of the largest parades the event has seen for years, with 28 floats being led by Bewdley fire brigade and Bewdley Band.

They were followed by this year's carnival princesses from Bewdley Primary School, which included five-year-old Alexia Freeman, Evie Cook aged nine, and from St. Anne's School, Kimberley Gameson, aged nine, and five-year-old Emelia Botfield.

The rain didn't dampen spirits as the parade travelled through the town, with crowds waving and putting money in collection tins.

Local VIP's were also present in the parade, including Bewdley Mayor John Byng with consort Barbara Byng, Stourport Mayor Ken Henderson with consort Lin Henderson, Wyre Forest District Council Chairman Shazu Miah with consort Mrs Farjana Khan, Bewdley Deputy Mayor Lawrence Kearns and Bewdley Young Mayor Elizabeth Thomas.

The afternoon's entertainment included The Fizzog's Dancing Grannies, who had people laughing at their antics, a display from the Hagley Falconry Centre, HCW Wrestling, Zennors Dance School,West Midlands Tae Kwon Do, Glamba, and a show from Simon Airey the animal man.

Judges for the float competition commented on the quality of the entries, and awarded the Social club and Charity group first place, Far Forest countryside show second, and Far Forest WI third.

The youth group was won by Bewdley Primary School, with St. Annes School, and Severnside School of Dance coming in second and third respectively.

The adults group was won by Talking Props, with Jeep placing Jeep second.

The day finished with a firework display organised by Bewdley Town Council.

Over 150 children and staff from Bewdley Primary School braved the weather to present a float and walking tableau entitled ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road.

Children also sang and dance to the theme of The Wizard of Oz.

Jane Woakes, headteacher at the school, said, “This week has been incredible. Such a creative and energetic week has given the children so many new experiences and skills. We’ve used the theme of The Wizard of Oz to support our PSHE curriculum too, teaching the children about friendship, courage and self-belief.

"To take part in the carnival, and for the children to have their hard-work rewarded, has been the perfect end to our week. It is wonderful that so many pupils and staff wanted to participate in this community event.”