16159/1The sun shone once again for the Wootton Bassett Carnival Fte as residents and visitors enjoyed a fun-packed afternoon.

Despite chilly winds the crowds came marching in for the fun of the fte at Noremarsh Junior School on Saturday.

Coconuts were bombarded, ice-creams were devoured and plenty of money was raised with profits over and above costs to be allocated to local charities.

On display was an appliance from Wootton Bassett Fire Station as well as mayor Chris Wannell's old Austin fire engine.

Performances included music from Wootton Bassett Brass Band as well as shows by the Metallic Twirlers, Devizes Dazzlers and the Hips and Haws ladies clog dancing group.

The Gazette's mascot Gilbert the Alligator was also on hand to entertain the children, accompanied by the Vintage bus. Saturday's fete was just one of a whole list of activities that have run since carnival week began on Friday with the Wootton Bassett and District Arts Society annual summer art exhibition.

Carnival organiser Mary Harrison said: "The exhibition was very well attended and the quiz night in the evening was also a lot of fun.

Sunday saw a car boot and table sale take place at the Memorial Hall with a walking treasure hunt starting from the Civic Centre later in the day.

The fun continued on Tuesday with the family game Beetle Drive taking place in St Bartholomew's Church Hall and last night teams took part in the cribbage tournament.

Entries continue to arrive for the Carnival's highlight the grand procession this Saturday from 6pm.

All procession vehicles must report to the control caravan on Marlowe Way by 4.30pm. Entry is free into any of the seven different procession categories. Cups and cash prizes will be awarded to the winners and runners-up in each category. The deadline for entry is tomorrow. Places can be booked by calling Eileen Lambourne on (01793) 850658.

Countdown to the carnival parade

Today: Tea Dance organised by Wootton Bassett Dance Group from 2-4.30pm at the Memorial Hall. Entrance is £2 and dances include ballroom, modern, sequence, line dance and old time.

Tomorrow: Arts, crafts and hobbies show by Arthritis Research Campaign from 1pm to 8pm middle floor of the Civic Centre. Entrance is 50p, come and see the talents of local people. '

Friday night is music night concert by Wootton Bassett Orchestra at 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall. Tickets cost £5 adults/£3.50 senior citizens/£1 under 16s.

Saturday: Grand Procession Day. Floats leave Marlowe Way at 6pm. Roads will be closed to traffic prior to departure.

The Carnival Fun Fair at Lime Kiln will be open from 2pm.

Sunday: Carnival Celebration, Chippenham Town Band, for the first time in Wootton Bassett from 3pm-4.30pm at the Civic Centre. Grand Prize Draw will take place during this event.