AN AFTERNOON so sizzling hot that it was almost a deterrent to people leaving the shade of their homes combined with a certain Scotsman playing a game of tennis at a certain south London tennis club did not prevent one of the most successful Bishops Castle carnivals ever.

On what was one of the hottest days of the year, Bishops Castle basked in the sun with one of the biggest crowds in years enjoying the atmosphere.

The Blue Bell at Brompton, near Churchstoke won the top prize for the best decorated float.

Early indications suggest visitor numbers may have been up by more than 50 per cent on last year. It was the combination of fine weather and a host of attractions that brought them in.

The parade enjoyed one of its biggest entries for years with 21 Carnival floats and 14 tractors participating in the day’s proceedings.

Adrian Kinsella had given up his Sunday to drive the vehicle for the winning float to and from Birmingham to be in the parade and it was fitting he received the trophy. Adrian is employed by SPV Limited which is based in Birmingham but whose owner, Howard Evans, lives at Brompton.

“All the locals and their children took part in decorating the lorry and making all the costumes and decorations. There really was a great party spirit to the whole event,” said Howard.

Helen Jones, who has been the proprietor of The Blue Bell Public House since 1966 was at the carnival to witness the float netting the award and she was pictured on the front of the float as well.

“What a wonderful achievement for everyone and what a super day it turned out to be. The whole event was really well organised and everybody seemed in party mood”.

On the field visitors enjoyed the sunshine and live music and entertainment in the arena.