THOUSANDS of people, no doubt encouraged by the unseasonably fine weather, turned out to watch Holsworthy Carnival last Saturday and with the Christmas lights switched on for the first time and Rowland's funfair in full swing in the Manor Car Park, it was, as ever, one of the most colourful and enjoyable events in the town's calendar.

In the afternoon, it was the turn of the children and with the judging completed and the Fairy Queen, five-year-old Bronte Stevens having been crowned by the Mayor, Cllr Pauline Ede, the procession wound its way around the town, led by the Town Band followed by the Mayor and Portreeve. Among the floats were London 2012 (Holsworthy Cubs) and the Smurfs (Holsworthy Beavers) and a family group as Harry Potter and the Torrington All Stars Majorettes who pranced their way among the walking characters.

In the evening the Town Band and Holsworthy Carnival Queen, 12-year-old Claudia Dymond, having been crowned by her uncle, the Portreeve, led the procession from the Cattle Market through the crowded streets of the town.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.