Blandford Carnival a rip-roaring success

Joining in the fun were a living and breathing chess set from Stars Carnival Club with their float Check Mate, a band of unruly pirates and astronauts.

Blandford Mayor Councillor Esme Butler judged the fancy dress efforts before leading them along the two-mile parade route.

It may not have been the Yellow Brick Road, but that didn’t stop a Wizard of Oz crew of Tin Man, Scarecrow and Dorothy picking up prizes for Best Endeavour and Best Overall group for six- to 12-year-olds.

Committee chairman Lil Jones said: “The weather was good to us and we put on a good show.

“I’ve been involved for over 40 years, and no one had a bad word to say so we must be doing it right.

“Everyone’s enjoyed the three days of fairground rides too.”

In the 13 years and over class, Natasha Shaw won as tribal princess Pocahontas. Performers showing off their skills included Integrity Martial Arts, Blandford Youth Football and Wessex Majorettes.

Tots Brooke Downton, Sophie Welton and Charlie Gatehouse were named Blandford’s cutest babies.

Donations will be made to local charities once collection money has been totted up.