AROUND 2,000 people visited the Burton Carnival at the weekend, where the main float was decorated to commemorate 75 years since the D-Day landings.

Burton Scout Group hosted the event, which has become a firm-favourite in the local area over the years.

The procession started at Burton School, at 11am on Saturday, before making its way to the village green, where younger children in 'space-themed' fancy dress joined the fun, before heading onto the recreation ground.

Burton Scout Group leader Graham Markwick told the Daily Echo: "This is a real community event, we've got the young ones joining the procession at the green, as it is less of a hop to the recreation ground.

"They're all tiny so they cannot be expected to walk from the school.

"We get about 1,500 -2,000 and there is something for everyone."

The main float was shaped into a landing craft, which was made out of cardboard.

Graham added: "We've got model steam engines, traction engines and antiques tractions joining our cub and scouts in the procession."

The event was officially opened by the Mayor of Christchurch Cllr Lesley Dedman followed by judging of the fancy dress and the crowning of the Carnival Princess.

The festival also included stalls from local groups, as well as vintage motorbikes and cars and a miniature train.

“We’ve had plenty going on," said Graham. "There is a craft tent and a forge works where members of the public can have a go at hammering some metal.

"Its like a procession come village fete, and everyone is welcome."