GREY skies and the threat of rain did not cast a cloud over St Briavels Carnival.

A spokeswoman for the carnival said: Unfortunately the good weather of the last few years did not return this year and the village woke to grey skies and rain for most of the morning.

"This did not dampen our spirits and, thankfully, the rain stopped just before the floats assembled at the tump for judging, before making their way through the village to the playing fields, where the Carnival took place.

"The standard of floats and fancy dress this year again was exceptional and our thanks go to all those involved for the preparation, effort and hard work that is involved.

"It was a tremendous turn out for such a small village and we know that the children from the village really enjoy taking part."

St Briavels playgroup with its St Briavels castle float was the best and it was presented with the Edward Page memorial cup. St Briavels School juniors won the Janet Parry memorial cup with its Lion King float and the Jubilee Vase was presented to St Briavels School Infants for its Room on the Broom float.

In the walking section, the group winners were Millie Connor, Penny Adams, Mollie Chiswell, Liv Smith and Megan Goodwin as ladies of the century.

The winner of the 11-18 section was Xenia Bennett as Fantastic Mr Fox and cowboy George Watson took the Dyke Stephens memorial cup for the under-seven section.

Many local groups had stalls on the field and among the entertainment was music from the Chepstow Community Big Band, gymnastics and country dance displays by pupils of Ellwood School and a display by the Wye Valley Dance School.

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