CARNIVAL fun came to the streets of Horwich at the weekend . . . and the verdict of the organisers at the end of two days of fun and smiles was "one of the best ever".

Thousands of revellers lined the streets to see 400 people take part in the carnival parade which left Horwich RMI Club at 1pm yesterday.

Organisers pulled out all the stops to overcome setbacks created by new police regulations that meant people were barred from riding on moving floats because of fear of accidents.

Instead, most of those in the parade were on foot -- but Carnival Queen Amy Louise Gilfillan still took pride of place on a carriage.

Schoolchildren in fancy dress joined morris dancers and jazz, brass, samba and pipe bands as the procession weaved its way through the streets.

At Old Station Park, there was an array of activities for all the family, including a funfair, pet show, baby show, stalls and pony rides.

Horwich town councillor Ken Denton, a carnival committee member, said: "It was a good carnival this year. Hopefully it has given us something to build on in future years."

Lauren Kelly, aged 12, who took part in the parade as part of Rivington and Blackrod High School's Horwich Through the Years display, said: "It was brilliant. I really enjoyed walking with my friends and waving at the crowds."

She was watched by mum Jane Kelly, and grandmother Jean Barkess. Mrs Kelly said: "You could see that a lot of work had gone into the parade, but it's a shame there weren't any floats."

Money raised from the event will go to this year's chosen charities -- Guide Dogs for the Blind and Bolton Mountain Rescue Team.

Anyone interested in joining the Horwich Carnival Committee and getting involved in next year's event is asked to contact Cllr Barbara Ronson on 01204 695742.