A TOWN'S annual carnival, which almost folded due to financial irregularities, looks likely to be one of the best ever.

Organisers of the Barnard Castle Meet, in Teesdale, County Durham, have been thrilled by the turnout of locals and visitors over the weekend and hope today's town centre parade will prove a major attraction.

In March, it was revealed that several thousand pounds were missing from the meet committee's funds and the community rallied round to ensure the event went ahead.

A local man was arrested and released on bail following the claims and a police inquiry is continuing.

Rachel Tweddle, chairman of the meet committee, said last night: "We have had a brilliant turnout so far and we are very optimistic about Monday. We are expecting a lot of people to come along.

"We have had a tremendous amount of support from the community and people from past committees have said they will come along dressed up for the parade. Everybody has really pulled together.''

Community organisations who put together stalls for the event did so well yesterday that they donated their proceeds to the committee in a show of solidarity.

Mrs Tweddle said: "It was unexpected and such a nice thing to do.''

A talent showcase, a pet show and blues night were among the highlights of the weekend, along with the crowning of the carnival queen. Today's events will include the traditional parade, paint- balling and sumo wrestling.

Mrs Tweddle said: "People are saying a lot of good things about this year's event. Many have said that the entertainment has been of a high standard."

Meanwhile, Richmond Meet, in North Yorkshire, got under way on Friday evening with a president's reception at The Kings Head. On Saturday, there was a six-a-side football tournament, the return of the Richmond Senior Cycling Road Race and a disco and barbecue.

Yesterday saw a procession from Richmond Town Hall for the morning service at the Methodist church, followed by the official opening of the meet Sunday show in Earls Orchard.

One of the highlights was a display by the Gurkhas.

Meet president Paul Hadden said: "It was the first time we have had them here and they did a traditional dance. The crowd absolutely loved it."

He said the annual event had proved a huge success so far.