PORTISHEAD carnival-goers refused to let the rain dampen their spirits as thousands lined the streets to support the town’s annual event.

Despite early downpours and the occasional shower during the parade, the town was alive with carnival atmosphere.

More than 20 entries of larger than life vibrant floats, hand-crafted by schoolchildren, community groups and local businesses, along with smaller floats, motorbikes, animal clubs, walking parties and marching bands weaved their way through the streets.

Families arrived in their masses, with umbrellas at the ready, to cheer on the procession.

Members of Portishead Running Club started the day’s events from the Lake Grounds with a road race at midday. The Portishead royal family then led the procession in an open top bus, through High Street to Gordano School, opposite the carnival field.

Trophies and certificates were awarded in 10 categories with Best Behaved Dog Training School being judged supreme champion, with its entry of 101 Dalmatians.

Fun fair rides, stalls, refreshments and live music kept everyone busy all afternoon and to round the day off, The Spooks played to more than 100 revellers at the carnival after party at Somerset Hall.