AN explosion of colour, music and fun sent Stourport into party mode on Saturday as this year's carnival proved one to remember.

More than 20,000 people descended on the town centre to marvel at the floats, take in the live entertainment and watch the two river parades in the jubilee-themed bash.

"It was absolutely marvellous - one of the best ever," said carnival committee member Pete Roberts.

"We had more floats, more boats, and more people than last year and we raised thousands of pounds for local charities.

"The rain held off and everyone had a good time."

Between 30 and 35 floats, including a steam engine and several vintage tractors, wowed the crowds thronging the streets and up to 40 boats joined both the afternoon river parade and the evening spectacular - reckoned by organisers to be the best illuminated procession in the country.

The evening river pageant included a dinghy transformed into a chariot and a boat masquerading as a sheriff's car accompanied by an Elvis soundtrack.

Four lead boats carried the carnival queen, princess, and rosebud as well as the mayor and mayoress and the visiting mayor of Stourport's French twin town Villeneuve-le-Roi.

Trophies were handed out to the most impressive entries in both the land and river parades.

Traders got into the spirit by competing in the carnival-themed best-dressed window competition, with the High Street's The Flower Cellar coming up trumps.

The carnival field saw live sets from Wyre Forest group Blind Lemon and several school bands, mock medieval battles and the crowning of the carnival queen, 16-year-old Sammy-Jo Hall.

A spectacular firework display rounded off the day at 9.30pm.

"I've had good reports from all," said Mr Roberts. "People booked up in the local hotels and the caravan sites were full."

He added: "Everybody did a splendid job and joined together to make it a lovely day."