A FANTASTIC parade through the streets of Crumpsall heralded the start of the community's annual carnival on Sunday.

The parade was the biggest ever for the event involving scores of children and young people made up of three local primary schools, two bands, members of the scout movement and army cadets.

They were joined by Police and St John Ambulance as well as local residents, councillors and volunteers from The Friends of Crumpsall Park and The Friends of Herristone Park who helped to organise the carnival.

This year's Crumpsall Carnival was based on a pirate theme and local schools took part in weeks of art and craft classes to create their own costumes.

A Samba band led the parade from Herristone Park followed by children from St Thomas CE who had created a giant orange octopus, dancers and children dressed in pirate costumes from Crumpsall Lane Primary and pupils from St Anne's RC who had built a pirate ship.

They were followed by the Crumpsall Scout and Guide Band who led scout groups and cub packs from across the district who were taking part for the first time.

Manchester's Lord Mayor Glynn Evans met the parade at Crumpsall Park where he chose the winners of the fancy dress competition before touring the carnival site and meeting community volunteers.

Activities during the event included a performance by Crumpsall Concert Band led by Derek Farnell, a tea dance, plus appearances by artists who took part in this year's Northern Air Hospital Radio Talent Show. There were many stalls and a fair ground. The day was compered by Northern Air presenter Dave Bee.

The park was packed by families enjoying the entertainment from noon but torrential rain that hit Manchester around 3pm dispersed the crowd.

Only the hardy and those lucky enough to cram into shelter were left to see the closing acts perform at around 4pm bringing the carnival to a prompt close at 4.30pm but organisers and those taking part declared the day a huge success.

Bernie Kelly, a member of the Crumpsall Carnival Committee exclaimed: " Wow what a great success. I am so pleased with the whole event. I am so happy and proud  to be part of a great team that can come together and put on such a fab event. Looking at the photos shows we are up there with the best of them."

To view images of the carnival click the link below and hold your mouse arrow over the picture to click to the next image.