A VILLAGE carnival which was revived last year after a 20-year gap is likely to become an annual event after attracting large crowds yesterday.

The West Auckland Community Partnership was delighted by the success of its carnival and promised next year's event would be even better.

The carnival was opened by Councillor Margaret Douthwaite and was followed by a procession through the village.

Attractions this year included children's line-dance group the Country Crazy Kickers and a performance from the village jazz band, the Centurions.

Joshua the dancing dog entertained the crowds and there were competitions in five-a-side football, tug o' war and quoits.

The West Auckland World Cup was on display and children had the opportunity to be photographed with the trophy.

Villager Ted Bradley exhibited his working models of a fairground and traction engine and there were stalls and rides.

The day ended with a duck race, with entrants cheering on plastic toys down the river.

Chris McHale, a committee member for the partnership and one of the organisers, said: "It was an excellent day and really well attended. The weather held off and I think it was even better than last year."