PHOTOS: Thousands party in the streets for 'fantastic' carnival

THOUSANDS partied in the streets on Saturday as the annual Ringwood carnival rolled into town.

A host of detailed, colourful floats featuring everything from Only Fools and Horses characters to US astronauts were packed with costumed residents who enjoyed sparkling weather in the biggest event in Ringwood’s calendar.

Organised by the Ringwood Carnival Society, the celebrations – which include a funfair at Bickerley Green – raise cash for a range of local and national charities and good causes, and this year pulled in more than £5,500.

Last year's recipients included Macmillan Caring Locally, Friends of Ringwood Infant School, Julia's House Children's Hospice and the Stable Family Home Trust.

Attracting many visitors from surrounding towns and villages, the carnival featured two processions: one at 2pm and an illuminated parade at 7.15pm as the evening drew in. The Sampson's Percheron horses led the queen’s carriage at the head of the procession.

A carnival society spokesman said: “We’ve had a fantastic carnival.

“We are only successful thanks to those who took part, got involved and because of our strong local financial support.

“Huge thanks has to go to the wonderful community of Ringwood that makes our carnival what it is.

“As a small group of volunteers, the Ringwood Carnival Society is proud to arrange and deliver an annual carnival for each and every one of you.”

Ringwood saw its first carnival in 1928, which was set up to fund the purchase of a field, as well as raising money for the Royal Victoria & West Hants Hospital.