THOUSANDS of visitors turned out today (Sat, July 13) to enjoy this year's Chippenham Carnival in bright sunshine.

Among them were Chippenham mother of two Samnatha Finner, of Dallas Road, with her two children Ella,5, and Leo,3.

Ella, dressed as Galaxy, and Leo, dressed as Darth Vader, were the winners of the Carnival fancy dress competition.

They each won a box of Lego and mum Sam, said: "We're having a good time. It's nice to have all the free activities."

Another visitor was Abbie Kirkham, 21, from Lansdown Park, Calne, with her son Ryleigh-Jay Ireland, two.

He was introduced to the MK Garrisons' Star Wars character Wookie, but didn't quite know what to make of the large hairy monster.

Abbie said: "I think he's a little bit shy and nervous.

"We're going to have a look around and watch the people singing on the live music stage. We're having a good time so far.

The MK Garrison Star Wars characters, including Darth Vader, a Rebel Jet fighter pilot, and Storm Troopers were one of the major attractions at the carnival in the Island Park.

Earlier, Chippenham MP Michelle Donelan, who had been meeting local constituency members, met up with the town's mayor, Cllr Desna Allen, for a quick chat.