Bridport Carnival celebrations went out with a ‘heartening’ bang.

Thousands of people showed up as the weekend brought the highly anticipated Carnival Procession and Torchlight Procession back to the town.

Bridport Mayor Cllr Dave Bolwell said: “What a wonderful weekend for Bridport!  It was a privilege to be a part of the Carnival parade, which was absolutely huge, and the entries were so colourful and creative. 

“Torchlight was spectacular; I was proud to be at the head of the procession, joined by thousands to enjoy the experience, which was followed by an incredible party atmosphere and fireworks at West Bay. 

“It was heartening to see the community turn out in force for both events, showing off the town at its very best.  Our sincerest thanks go to the Carnival Committee and everyone else involved.”

The streets of Bridport were filled with cheer and celebration as the popular carnival procession weaved its way through the town.

The procession started from West Allington and snaked along West Street down to the Town Hall before turning into South Street and making its way to the Morrisons car park.

Gill Crumps, one of the organisers of Bridport Carnival said: “We are really pleased with the amount of people that entered into the carnival this year.

“Hopefully we’re now out of the slump and people realise that it’s down to them to enter into the carnival.

“It was just amazing to see the amount of people in the carnival. Thank you to everybody who helped out.”

This year featured the Bridport Round Table dressed up as blue aliens from the movie Avatar, a Beatles yellow submarine and much more with a variety of colourful costumes, acts and accompanying floats.

A fantastic carnival week was brought to a spectacular close as thousands of people turned out for the torchlight procession.

Gill said: “We think about 3,000 people turned up to the torchlight procession - It was amazing – spectacular.”

What seemed like the entire town was out in force to carry out the annual tradition last night, making their way from South Street, Bridport, to West Bay with lit flames.

At the bay, the torches were thrown onto a bonfire and a stunning firework display brought the evening - and carnival week - to a close.