COLOURFUL characters were out in force at Verwood Carnival.

Crowds turned out to watch the carnival procession on Monday.

They were also able to enjoy the range of entertainment which was on offer for all ages at the Fuzzy Bit.

Arena events included Tigers Junior Motorcycle Display Team, Dingle Fingle comedy car act, and Mere Down Falconry Display.

The chairman of Verwood Carnival, Adrian Read, said: "It went absolutely fabulously. The weather was just right for us. It was a good family day out."

Organisers believe the event attracted about 3,000 visitors.

Previously, there had been doubts whether the carnival would go ahead as Mr Read explains.

"This year came up great. There was doubt it would go ahead."

The carnival attracted plenty of walking entries to take part in the main procession, including Disney princesses, umpa lumpas from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and pirates.

Mr Read said: "We had a good number of walking entries, more than we have had in previous years. It's been the best carnival we have had in the last three or four years."

Next year's Carnival is expected to take place once again on Bank Holiday Monday.