IT was that one day of the year when perfectly sensible people abandon their inhibitions and live out their fantasies – such as joining International Rescue or becoming a Smurf.

There was no shortage of fun, frolics or laughter – not to mention a generous helping of goodwill from spectators hurling a constant stream of cash into buckets – during the highlight of Malmesbury’s annual carnival procession.

Saturday’s procession was declared a huge success as the ancient streets were crammed with Vikings, witches, clowns, Quakers, and pearly kings and queens and various cartoon characters come-to-life.

There were some fearsome mums in combat fatigues, banner waving Edwardians demanding “votes for women,” and youngsters in gravity defying red and white Dr Seuss hats.

The procession wended its way around town to an assortment of sounds, from brass bands to a samba beat.

Some £3,600 was raised during the two hour procession. “That’s a lot of money into a lot of buckets,” said Steve Cox, one of a large team of Malmesbury people who are involved in the event.

“I thought this year’s procession was a great success – it was really excellent,” he said.

“Malmesbury has a lot of affection for the carnival. It’s an important date for lots of people who look forward to it,” he said.

As well as raising much needed funds for a host of local charities the procession proved a fittingly spectacular finale to almost two months of around 60 events that comprised this year’s carnival and festival.

Such was the enthusiasm from spectators, some of whom enjoyed a spot of alcoholic refreshment during the entertainment, that The Old Bell pub afterwards launched a glasses amnesty after around 200 went missing.

“If you have found yourself in possession of a glass and you're not sure where it came from then pop into The Old Bell and leave it on the bar, no questions asked,” the pub announced.

Carnival winners: Class One (motorised vehicles): 1. Thunderbirds Are Go, The Three Cups (Tableaux Cup and Public House Cup); 2. The Best of British, St Joseph’s Catholic School; 3. Shaun the Sheep on Holiday, Malmesbury & District Young Farmers (Seniors). Class Two (Groups of Walkers): 1. Dr Seuss, K&S Child Care (The Paul Dove Cup for best spirit of carnival); 2. The London Look, Athelstan Players(Adult Walkers' Cup), 3. The Children’s Centre ‘Stompy’, Malmesbury Children’s Centre (Junior Walkers' Cup). Class Three (individual walkers, mobility vehicles and wheeled vehicles): 1. Batman in the Batmobile, Norman Hunt (The Mobility Cup); 2. Snow White, Cynthia Rowston.