Thousands line Staffordshire streets for weekend's carnivals
Families lined sun-drenched streets in Staffordshire to watch floats of all shapes and sizes at two carnivals.
The events in Cannock town centre and Brereton attracted thousands of people on one of the hottest days of the year.
A procession of floats - many with a wartime theme to mark the 100 years since the outbreak of the First World War - made its way from Chase Leisure Centre in Stafford Road, Cannock on Saturday afternoon, cheered on by crowds along Church Street and into the centre.
There was live music on the bandstand, including a performance from the Black Watch Pipe Band.
Paramedics gave a resuscitation demonstration there was a range of stalls and funfair rides.
Charlotte Bates of Rugeley was formally crowned Cannock Carnival Queen, and the best float prize was won by Bridgtown Primary School for the Spitfire-inspired design.
Headteacher Joanne Raybould said: "This is the fourth time we have taken part and this year we were the only school.
"We really enjoy and it and it is great to promote our local community. There were plenty of families and friends watching along the way and it is lovely to keep this tradition going in the town.
"We chose the Spitfire because of the First World War 100th anniversary, and it is important the children realise the sacrifices that were made in the past."
Also among the procession was Derek Ellison, acting as standard bearer for the Normandy Veterans Association for the final time at the carnival before it is disbands.
The 74-year-old, who joined the Walsall and District branch as his father, Sgt Reg Ellison, was wounded in Normandy, said: "I want to do all I can to make people aware of the Normandy veterans. It tears me up a bit to think that the standard will be laid up soon, but I wanted everyone to see it while they still can."
Mr Ellison, who served in the Royal Engineers for two years, said he was pleased with the turnout at the event.
A day at the movies was the theme for Brereton's carnival, which was revived last year after a 26-year absence by Brereton & Ravenhill Association for Community Events (Brace).
The procession of floats and bands setting off from Hawkins Logistics Yard in Redbrook Lane and ended up at Ravenhill Park where there were attractions including beer tents, fairground rides, live music from the Rock Dogs, stilt walkers and group displays.
An appeal to resurrect the carnival, which ran from 1977 until 1986, was launched in July 2012.
