Dark clouds did not stop the crowds at Purton carnival enjoying the show.

Floats in Saturday's dance-themed procession featured a disco-inspired child minding group, an under five playgroup with their rendition of a barn dance and Purton Guides with a tractor disco theme.

The parade, which meandered through the High Street, was the culmination of a week of events led by the Pride Of Purton winners, Wiltshire Fire and Rescue and a band from the Bluebell Majorettes.

The carnival's Alternative Queens, made up of five men dressed as the Spice Girls, were greeted with cheers from residents lining the streets.

Carnival secretary Pauline Ward said the event had been a successful end to the week.

She said: "It was a good day considering the weather. People really turned out and everyone had a lot of fun.

"We have had a good week and a superb talent show. We had a lovely teddy bear's picnic, a good concert with the Thamesdown Ladies' Choir and an excellent Sunday with the round the houses race, with over 40 contestants."

The Purton Helping Hand Carnival runs each year to raise money for the Purton Helping Hand charity, which provides the village's pensioners and disabled residents with £6 vouchers to be spent in Purton shops each Christmas.

Myrtle Gardiner, who lives at the White Horse Care Trust Home, is one of the villagers who benefits from the charity.

The 94-year-old, who was pretty in pink from head to toe, enjoyed the day's festivities.

She said: "I love the carnival, it is lovely."

Ruth Rutherford and Sue Moon, the managers of the house, say the carnival is special because it raises funds for those in need and everyone always has a good time.

Neil Wicks, 43, who was volunteering at the event, said it was a great day out for the whole village and the surrounding areas which helped make the event such a special one.

He said: "It is great for the kids to get involved, everyone enjoys the procession.

"It is just so nice to see the whole village together.

"My wife took part in the carnival when she was a seven-year-old on the Brownie float and now our son is here, that is special for us."

Anyone who wants to join the committee and help out next year should telephone Pauline on 01793 770251