POOR weather failed to dampen spirits as a flood-hit community gathered in the grounds of Appleby Castle to celebrate its annual carnival.

Organisers hoped that the event with the theme ‘Carnivals Around the World’ would raise civic pride and community spirit after the December floods.

The carnival opened with a parade - the largest that the town has seen in over a decade - which went up through the town to the castle led by Appleby Fire Brigade and the Blue Jam Steel Band.

They were accompanied by Appleby Air Training Corps and a variety of vintage and classic vehicles, as well as walking groups including brownies and beavers.

Donna Park, secretary of the carnival committee, said: “I stood at the entrance to the castle watching the procession come up Boroughgate. It brought a tear to my eye seeing such a wonderful parade and the streets full of spectators, who followed the procession into the castle. It was just like a sea of people.”

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Activities throughout the two-day event included fairground rides, face painting, an obstacle course, bike maintenance and a sold-out concert for local band Absolutely on Saturday.

The weekend also saw the reign of this year’s Royal Party; queen Lilly Peck, king Aiden Ousby, princess Erin Dent and prince Jewels Kemp.

“The atmosphere was electric, and even the rain, which was heavy at times didn't put people off," said Ms Park. "Adults and children alike had smiles of their faces as they wandered around the amusements in the castle grounds.

“This was lovely to see after so many local people were affected by the floods in December. We saw true Appleby spirit, people coming together.”

Organisers have found the post carnival feedback to be ‘absolutely overwhelming’.

“There have been so many positive comments on social media," said Ms Park. "It makes all the hard work worthwhile.”