HUNDREDS of people made the most of the sunny weather and packed-out this year’s Burton Scout Carnival.

The event, at Martins Hill Recreation Ground, Burton, Christchurch, took place on Saturday afternoon.

Christchurch mayor Cllr John Lofts officially opened the proceedings at 2pm, following a procession that was cheered by supporters as it wound its way through the village.

This colourful procession, consisting of eight walking groups, gathered at Burton Primary School, Campbell Road, around 1pm, before marching to the arena at the recreation ground.

This year’s proud Carnival Princess was 13-year-old Emma Rodwell, from Ringwood School.

Carnival organiser Emma Kearney told the Daily Echo: “We had cracking weather. We couldn’t ask for more.

“The procession was brilliant and we had about eight walking groups of children this year.

“We don’t really have an overall theme for the carnival.

“Each group does what it wants to do.

“The cubs went with a coronation theme this year, but this wasn’t the same for everyone.

“Unfortunately we didn’t have a band joining us on the main procession this year, but we did have lots of music in the main arena.”

Other attractions included a variety of stalls, fairground-style attractions and refreshments stands. There was a scout band and a dance display from the Kaleidoscope troupe.

Peter Williams, from Christchurch, summed up the mood. He said: “The sun is shining, the children are smiling. Maybe it’s a sign the summer has finally arrived.”