PEOPLE turned out in force to soak up the sunshine at one of the biggest little carnivals in West Dorset.

Puddletown Carnival’s week of celebrations ended with a procession themed around fairy tales.

Judged to be the best float overall was Puddletown Pre-school and First School’s take on Beauty and the Best.

And winning the best static float award was the Shiners Reservation with a native American-themed display.

Carnival committee chairman Damian Locke said: “We had totally different weather to last year.

“Last year was a wash-out but this year the rain held off until midnight.”

Proceeds from the carnival, which are still being counted, will go towards local groups in the area.

Among the highlights of this year’s carnival were a duck race on the River Piddle, a sponsored walk and a bingo night.

Saturday’s events included stalls and side shows, a barbecue, a funfair and a beer tent.

Mr Locke added: “We were really pleased that we had between 2,000 to 3,000 people throughout the course of the day.

“I’d like to say thanks to everyone who took part.

“A lot of the villagers call this the best little carnival in the area and we’re trying to keep it that way.”