HUNDREDS of people turned out to enjoy the first week of Devizes carnival fortnight with a picnic in the park.

Music got people in the mood to party in Hillworth Park and picnics were washed down with wine, beer and soft drinks as people of all ages enjoyed the fun organised by Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts.

Artistic director Loz Samuels said: "The traditional Picnic in the Park kicked off the Devizes International Street Festival fortnight. There was great music and chilled family entertainment."

Before the event she advised people to bring both suncream and umbrellas and that proved to be good advice as the day started sunny but by the middle of the afternoon the rain had started to arrive.

Music was provided by groups including Terrafolk and Folklaw. There was also the chance to join in free workshops to create peacock headresses ready for the carnival procession on September 2 under instruction from Dee Moxon. Youngsters were also able to help decorate some of the larger carnival props.

CAMRA ran a beer tent and the park café was also open for drinks and snacks. But many people brought their own food and set out tables and chairs to create a family base for the day.

Ms Samuels said "Hillworth Park is always such a lovely relaxing place to spend the day, perfect to bring a picnic, listen to great music and hang out with family and friends, the workshops were great entertainment for the kids. It was the perfect way to spend a summer Sunday."

Tomorrow (Aug 25) the Carnival Quiz Night will be held at Southbroom Infant School at 8pm. There will be a bar and boozy prizes. Ring 01380 728671.

For more information about the fortnight go to www.docadevizes.org.uk.