THE fun folk of Horwich made it a carnival to remember at the weekend.

Crowds flocked to meet soap stars Gemma Atkinson, from Emmerdale, and Hollyoak's Jamie Lomas.

The carnival started on Saturday with events at Old Station Park including the bonny baby, dog show, petting zoo and singing competition.

The crowning of the carnival royalty also took place, with 13-year-old Rhianne Johnson crowned this year's queen.

She said: "I'm really happy. The favourite part of the weekend is probably the parade because it's just so fun."

The big parade kicked off celebrations on Sunday with community groups and organisations taking part.

A team of strong men from Works Fitness Gym even pulled a 10-ton truck along the way.

Running from Ramsbottom Road, along Church Street, Lee Lane then on to Chorley New Road, brass bands and morris dancers played and danced their way through the streets.

Among the mascots, floats and colourful costumes was The Queen, speeding along on a mobility scooter and waving regally at the waving crowds.

Taking a turn behind the mask of Her Royal Highness was 69-year-old Horwich resident Jean Rostron, grandmother of the Carnival Queen.

"I've rode round every carnival," she added.

"I really enjoyed it, it made everyone laugh so I'm quite happy about that. I think it was the real regal wave that did it!"

Among the floats was a British summer-themed parade of giant sandcastles, lollipops, wellies and umbrellas by Claypool Primary School.

Deputy headteacher and Horwich mum Stacey Postle, aged 39, was taking part with her husband Jonathan, aged 40, and two sons six-year-old Max and two-year-old Joel.

She said: "The whole school got involved with the parents also dressing up. We do it every year.

"Forty to 50 children took part this time and everyone really enjoyed it, it's great to see everyone waving and smiling.

"It's great because you can all get involved together."

Sunday was rounded off at the funfair and visitors enjoyed music by the Army Band and Rivington and Blackrod Brass Band.

Town mayor, Cllr Jim Bullock added: "It is a wonderful day and a wonderful event for the community!"