DOGS were barking, bargains were sought and families enjoyed all sorts of activities at Trowbridge Park for the annual county fair and boot sale on Saturday.

With just over a month to go until the Trowbridge Carnival gets underway, more than 800 people enjoyed a day of stall shopping, music, dance groups, fair rides and inflatables, among other activities.

Around 50 dogs took part in the dog show, with the categories being split into most handsome dog, cutest puppy, waggiest tail, most appealing eyes and overall best in show, to name a few. Carnival committee member, Maryrose Mantle, was delighted with how the event went and she said the proceeds from this will go towards the carnival on October 20.

“It was a great day out for all of the family. There was a good turnout, the weather was good and we had so many cute dogs on the day too,” she said.

“A lot of people had a really fun day out in Trowbridge.”

Once again, Town Crier Trevor Heeks got the event underway with his usual enthusiasm.

“It is great having Trevor down at these events. He has been town crier for 32 years and he always brings a smile to people’s faces,” she said.

The surprise part of the day was the hugely popular alligator ride, something Mrs Mantle had kept secret in the run-up to the event.

“This was a lovely and wonderful addition on the day. It was a rollercoaster ride in the shape of an alligator - the children loved it,” she said.

The other events coming up ahead of the carnival include the quiz with a fish and chips supper at the Polish Club, Waterworks Road, Monday (September 17) and a ladies’ night on September 29 at the Wesley Road Club.

To get involved with the carnival procession email maryrosemantle@gmail.com