THE streets of Adlington were brought to life at the weekend when record crowds attended the village's 29th carnival.

Despite a downpour on the Sunday, press officer Colin Prescott said the event, held on the Jubilee playing fields, pulled in crowds of nearly 40,000 people.

Soap stars Alan Halsall, Corrie's Tyrone Dobbs, and Ben Freeman, Emmerdale's Scott Windsor, were there while all manner of entertainments were laid on for the biggest attraction in Adlington's calendar.

Even Sunday's driving rain didn't dampen people's spirits. Mr Prescott said: "The rain came down at a crucial time and it was the biggest shower I've seen for years! But we hauled everything into the marquee, the first time in 29 years we had to bring everything indoors, but nobody failed to have a good time."

TV celebrity Ben crowned carnival queen Michelle Clare, presented badges to the winners of the classic car show and signed autographs.

Preparations are already under way for next year's event, but Mr Prescott said he could have seen his last carnival because of difficulties with sponsors.

"We would like to appeal to local and international businesses to come forward -- we need financial help and we need it now."

Anyone who wants to help can call 01257 482043 or 07754 800261.