IT could have been a damp squib -- but organisers of the fifth Chorley Cake Street Fair have denied it was a wash-out.

Despite atrocious weather, Gore and de Koning's annual town centre attraction battled on -- and the company is already planning its return next year with more new rides.

Company spokesman Gary Gore said: "We had a reasonable fair considering the conditions we were under.

"We had a good opening with the mayor on the Thursday night. And we had a very good Friday night with the fireworks.

"It was quite busy during the days as well. Unfortunately, every time people tried to come out, the rain put the kibosh on it."

And the event had been largely trouble free for the company, he said, with the exception of some confusion over special offers on leaflets about the event.

"One or two people got mixed up with times that offers were available, but other than that we have not had anything out of the ordinary," he said.

Roger Handscombe, of Chorley Borough Council, commented: "The fair seemed to be running well.

"I think it's the best fair we've had so far in terms of organisation. It just did not get the weather."

Local traders said the event had been a success.

Josie Hampson, Chorley and District Chamber of Trade spokesman, said: "The fair brings so much pleasure, especially for the young people.

"And a lot of people have come back after the fair and bought what they have seen in the shops." BARBIE dolls: Jade Rigby, four, and Natasha Wright, five