WET weather failed to dampen the spirits of revellers at Blackrod Carnival on Saturday. Although the rain meant the crowds were only half those of last year more than 1,000 people still turned up to enjoy the fun at the show grounds on Vicarage Road playing fields and to line the parade route.

Rain poured down during the morning but organisers' prayers were answered at lunchtime when the deluge stopped for long enough to allow the parade and arena acts to go ahead without getting soaked.

Bolton Hoover Brass Band led the procession with the Bolton Scottish Pipe Band providing music in the middle of the six floats and 10 carnival queens.

Highlight of the afternoon was Elaine Hill and her sheepdogs delighting the spectators with a clever display of rounding up sheep, ducks and geese. Other attractions included a clown act, a Thai boxing demonstration, the Rapide brothers juggling act and Punch and Judy.

The carnival queen was crowned by the Mayor of Blackrod, Cllr John Monaghan and there were several charity stalls and trade stands as well as over 1,000 girls competing in the Morris dancing.

A classic vehicles exhibition proved to be a draw and for the first time the "best in show" was not won by a car - the top prize went to a beautifully maintained Norton motorcycle.

Bolton Council events co-ordinator Mike Coleman said organisers were pleased with the turn out of the crowds despite them being much lower than last year.

"Considering the weather we were wondering whether anybody would come," said Mr Coleman.

"We were just grateful that we got a window of opportunity where it stopped raining for long enough in the afternoon."

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