HEAVY rain marred the final weekend of Wootton Bassett Carnival, but that didn't stop crowds turning out to watch the Grand Procession.

Spectators took cover under umbrellas and trees along Marlowe Way as costumes and floats became soaked.

The sun did shine as the parade moved off, just a few minutes after 6pm on Saturday, but showers resumed later on. Despite the wet weather, carnival organisers felt the event was a success, especially after the recent threat of the parade being cancelled because of a shortage of marshals.

Eileen Lambourne, carnival spokeswoman, said: "We'd like to thank all the marshals who volunteered to help after our appeal in the Evening Advertiser.

"They did an excellent job although the rain came just at the wrong time."

The collection during the procession raised more than £2,110, for local charities.

Eileen added: "The collection was about £400 down on last year, when the weather was fine, but we're very happy with the result. It all came together in the end."

The winning float was created by the Five Bells pub, which featured Quasimodo, the Hunchback of Notre Dame.

More than 25 floats took part in the parade, including entries from Longleaze Pre-School, the town's Brownies, Guides and Scouts, Wootton Bassett Brass Band, The Royal British Legion Corps of Drums, Cricklade Town Band, Chippenham Majorettes and Martha, a vintage fire engine belonging to town councillor Chris Wannell.

The Mayor, Coun Marion Sweet, was driven in a red MG sports car while carnival princess Sian Millward, 11, and her attendants Chloe Hack, 10, and Lauren Groom, eight, travelled in a 1927 Fiat 520 tourer.

A group from Blain Wootton Bassett's French twin town also took part in the parade.

The carnival was over on Sunday with a picnic in Old Court Park, with music from St Bartholomew's School Choir and Wootton Bassett Light Operatic Society.