PEOPLE power decided the winners at this year's Porlock Carnival when 30 villagers were asked to vote for their favourite entries.

With awards up for grabs for the best topical, best comical and the chairman's choice, there was some tough competition among the 19, mostly home-grown entries for the overall best in carnival crown.

After some close voting, the title went to the village's Royal Oak pub and the spell-binding entry Harry Potter and the Search for Hermione.

It was the first time the "audience" had been asked to decide the outcome of the annual parade.

The winners of the classes and awards were presented with a piece of Bristol Blue Glass designed and donated by Jim and Susie Adlington of Exmoor Glass.

As well as the main parade, there was music from the Dolphin Marching Band and the Bideford Youth Pipe Band, while stilt walkers Stiltskin UK wowed the crowds with their gravity-defying antics.

Wellington Majorettes gave a display of their musical and marching skills before the carnival procession kicked off at 6pm.

Porlock's own village crier, local butcher Clive Downs, led the parade, with the honour of carnival queen bestowed on Maddie Harvey.

She was supported by princesses Emily Burge and Heather Kirkham and, for the first time, by two princes Sam Huish and William Stenner.

As well as the 19 entries, local organisations including Porlock Fire Brigade, the Coastguard and a hobby horse also turned out for the big event.

The cups, rosettes and awards were presented later in the evening in the village hall.

Carnival spokesman Jacky Pietrusiewicz said: "The buckateers did their usual excellent job of collecting along the carnival route and due to the generosity of the onlookers, £1,800 was collected.

"The money will go to local charities and organisations."

Anyone interested in applying for a donation from the proceeds of this year's carnival should contact Gary Peters at Sparkhayes Malthouse, Sparkhayes Lane, Porlock, TA24 8NE.

Results and more pictures in Friday's (September 9) Free Press