GLORIOUS weather brought the crowds out to celebrate Bewdley Carnival's 40th anniversary in style.

More than 2,000 people turned out to enjoy Saturday's event which was hailed the best for years.

Committee secretary, Angela Pitt, said takings were up by £500 on last year and around £1,500 would be donated to charities.

There were nine floats in the parade, which travelled through the town led by carnival princesses, Emila Fern,7, Shannon Bowen, 8, Hannah Francis, 6, and Emily Hyde, 5.

It included entries from Severnside School of Dancing and Bewdley Festival, as well as seven vintage and classic cars, three bands and two youth walking groups.

The winner of the best pubs and clubs float was Bewdley Bowling Club, with its tropical carnival theme and Silvas Tapas Bar won the commercial class with its Thriller float.

Chris Hart bagged himself first place in the vintage vehicle category with his Morris 8 Rolls Royce and Bewdley Guides and Brownies received the top prize in the youth walking group class with a River Severn display.

On the carnival field at Bewdley Leisure Centre, there was plenty to keep people of all ages entertained, such as fairground rides, a climbing wall and numerous bric-a-brac and charity stalls.

Those looking to escape the heat were able to enjoy a chill-out area where there were seats and cool water.

Two tug-of-war teams battled it out in the arena during the afternoon, with competitors from the Black Swan beating a crew from the Mughouse.

Mrs Pitt said: "It was a wonderful day. It was the best it had been for years. We have already started getting ready for the next one."

Cheap and Cheerful was crowned the winner of the best dressed shop window competition, with its Elvis Presley-themed display by judge, Bewdley Mayor, Louise Edginton.

Councillor Edginton said the carnival was a success, adding: "It was absolutely fantastic and bigger and better than it has been for years.

"The committee members all worked very hard to make it a brilliant day," she added.

Anyone who would like to apply for a donation from the carnival fund should contact Angela Pitt on 01299 402723.