HUNDREDS of visitors flocked to Shildon's annual carnival this year.

A parade featuring seven decorated floats, jazz bands and youngsters from primary schools in the town got the town carnival off to a fitting start.

People lined the streets to watch the parade go by before heading to Hackworth Park for the main events

Vintage cars, a dog and duck display and an assault course were among the highlights of the day, plus stalls, a climbing wall, arts and crafts and fairground sideshows.

Flo McCall, one of the organisers, said: "All the hard work and organisation has paid off. The weather has been good and people seem to have enjoyed themselves."

Three independent judges gave prizes for the best carnival float, jazz band and fancy dress.

The children at St John's Primary School won the prize in the fancy dress competition, while the Asda store in Bishop Auckland won the best float prize with Henry VIII and his Wives. The Sans Pareil Jazz Band was voted best jazz band.

John Bowman, from Shildon Chamber of Trade, said: "We had more than 100 people in the procession but next year we would love to make it bigger and better so we want to hear from people who want to take part next year as soon as possible, so we can start planning.''