WATCHET celebrated Carnival Day in style on Sunday, with floats, fancy dress, traditional fete and plenty of fun.

Floats and walking groups or individuals of all ages paraded and the whole community, from shops dressing their windows to local businesses, got involved.

“It went very well – we had cheering crowds and tremendous entries. The amount of work that went into them was superb,” said Nigel Pike, parade co-ordinator.

“We avoided the showers and all had a good time, thanks to everyone who joined in.”

The day started with the sound of music from Watchet Community Choir on The Esplanade, followed by an exciting solo aerial display by Mark Jefferies.

Watchet Town Crier David Milton led the procession and there were stirring sounds and sights with pipes and drums from Bideford Youth Pipe Band, Barnstaple Town Band and Somerset Red Arrow Majorettes.

There was a magician and trapeze act, and the procession wound through the town to finish at Watchet Memorial Ground where a traditional fete was much enjoyed.

New Carnival Queen 2017, Jodie Prescott, was presented with the Jade Chatfield Memorial Shield by David Chatfield, to mark the start of her year.

A competition for the best dressed shop on the theme of Carnival was won by Smuggler’s Cove, in Swain Street.

Assisted by attendant Sophie Hooper, they then presented the carnival awards, the best overall entry going to the Parrot Club’s ‘Mary Poppins’.

Photos: Paul Scullion and jag.photo