Ref. 25664-59A field in Walcot was transformed into a giant party arena for the Swindon Afro-Caribbean carnival.

Young and old joined in the fun, while others relaxed on blankets, making the most of the live music and blue skies.

George Carty, chairman of the Swindon West Indian Committee Association, said the event at Buckhurst Field was a huge success.

Mr Carty, 50, who is also a member of the carnival committee, said: "There are loads of different stalls here, from various kinds of Caribbean food to music and clothes.

"There's something for everyone and we like to try and bring the whole community together with this carnival."

Music from King Tubby's Sound reverberated around the field, while the smell of hot dogs, curried goat and onions wafted through the air.

Dozens of children got to grips with a range of crafts on board the Octobus Project, set up to serve young people living in homeless hostels and temporary accommodation around Swindon.

Play worker Kenny Dalgliesh, 24, explained: "The Octobus travels to wherever there isn't a community centre and offers children the chance to try out different activities such as arts and crafts and sports.

"The children are having a go at tie-dying cloth, making masks, experimenting with Mexican weaving and there's a jewellery stall too."

Maxime Morgan, 12, from Munro Close, Old Walcot, said: "I enjoy doing the Mexican weaving. I've done it before and I find it quite fun.

"You can place anything on it or put it on a lampshade."

Meanwhile television and radio presenter Susan Eddings, 39, hosted a talent show on stage. The winner, teenager Danny Dee, from Toothill, will now spend a day at Century 21 recording studios, in London, to cut his own single.