CROWDS lined the streets for the return of Bromsgrove Carnival on Saturday, which this year celebrated the World Cup with its 'Around the World' theme.

Schools, charities and community groups from across the district decorated their own lorry float based on their chosen country, and joined the procession through the town centre, led by town crier Kevin Ward and Someone at the Door Samba Band.

Participants included Libby Mae's Little Angels, Sidemoor First School, Bromsgrove Sporting and Breme Residential Care Home, SJP Theatre Arts, Fairfield First School and Blackwell Concert Band.

The parade came to an end in Sanders Park, where the carnival continued with a children's fun fair, live performances, stalls and refreshments.

BBC presenter Joanne Malin presented Bromsgrove Boys' Brigade with the 'Best Lorry Float' award for their Mexico-themed float, while Blue Giraffe Childcare won 'Best Walking Float' for the second year running.

Parade organiser Natalie Holland said: "The parade was fantastic - it was another great turn-out and everyone seemed like they had a great time.

"The feedback so far has been really positive. Everyone's said how brilliant it was to have the lorries back again.

"We'll start preparing for next year's carnival in the next few months so we'll be taking everyone's feedback on board."

Anyone interested in joining the carnival committee - which meets on the first Wednesday of each month - is urged to email parade@bromsgrovecarnival.org, or message the Bromsgrove Carnival Facebook page.