A FESTIVAL atmosphere came to Radcliffe as the town's 49th annual carnival enticed the crowds - despite downpours.

Hundreds of families lined the streets to watch a parade described by onlookers as "the best in many years" snake its way through Radcliffe town centre.

Approximately double the amount of people attended the carnival compared to last year's turnout, despite frequent heavy showers throughout the morning.

Organisers are already planning 2015's 50th carnival celebrations and say this event could be residents' final opportunity to throw themselves behind the tradition.