THOUSANDS of people lined the streets of Melksham last weekend to watch more floats than ever taking part in the annual carnival parade.

Spectators were eager to watch the procession of colourful floats as the parade wound its way from Avon Cooper car park through the town on a perfectly sunny day.

About 2,000 people watched the parade and carnival chairman Simon Hedley said he was pleased that the procession went out on time.

He added: “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We had some new entries this year and everyone said how much they liked the bands.

“There was such a great atmosphere – from the participants and also from the public. It was just a great day.

“We didn’t know what the floats would look like until they came into the car park so it kept us, as organisers, on our toes.

“We’ve decided to have a week off until our next meeting, but planning will soon be underway for next year’s event.”

The Manor School was awarded the best school float, while Brookside was crowned mayor’s choice.

Other highlights included members of Melksham Comic Con who dressed up as the cast of Ghostbusters and there were also a number of dance displays by troops including Infinity Dance Group and Enigma.

Carnival secretary Beth Dark added that the team is still counting the money raised which will be reinvested in next year’s event.

She said: “I love that people donated so much. It tends to show you what people are prepared to give to say thank you for putting on the carnival.

“I have been overwhelmed by the positive feedback. Of course you get the odd one saying things, but if they aren’t prepared to get involved with the organisation then it is their loss.

“It makes such a difference for people to line the streets and come out for it, especially when they see other locals in the procession. It just shows Melksham’s community spirit.”

Thanks to an awareness campaign, rogue balloon sellers who were fleecing parents out of hundreds of pounds were arrested by police for not having a pedlar’s licence.