COLOURFUL costumes, parades of dancers and marching bands made for an “electric” carnival in Winton.

Thousands of people lined the streets to watch the procession, which was officially started by Poole town crier, David Squire.

Heading up the parade were dancers from Hammond Academy of Performing Arts, followed by bagpipe players, and youngsters from Dance Zone.

Pupils from a number of schools, including Winton Preschool, Winton Primary School, and Malmesbury Park Primary School dressed up in a variety of fancy dress outfits for the parade, while children from St Luke’s School waved from the top deck of a Morebus.

Members of Kinson Community Centre and the Salvation Army also joined the lively procession, as well as performers from the upcoming musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert.

Carnival organiser Adas Sanyal said the turnout had been even bigger this year.

“It’s been very electric – everyone who took part in the parade has been very well prepared this year. Malmesbury Park School even handmade all their costumes with a ‘wild’ theme.

“We had a few different people take part in the parade this year such as the bagpipe players. And the town crier was in a Phantom Rolls Royce.”

He added: “There have been more people attending this year. Last year we had some rain, but we got that out of the way before the parade this year.

“A lady who has been living in Winton for 24 years said since the carnival started 12 years ago, it has made her day every year.”

As well as the fun of the parade, families enjoyed a host of stalls, attractions, and live music at Winton Recreation Ground.

There was also a range of activities for children including rides and face painting until 6pm.

This year, there was also a pit stop challenge on the main field at the recreation ground.

Winton Carnival is a non-profit event run by a small group of volunteers who aim to boost community spirit.

Committee members include Adas, Michelle Caroll, Angie Conway, Bob Staal, and Becky Baker.