LOCALS and visitors flocked to Parkend on Bank Holiday Monday for the eagerly anticipated return of the village’s annual carnival.

Organisers said ahead of the weekend that this year’s carnival was set to be “better than ever” - and the host of performers, attractions and participants in the procession certainly lived up to the billing.

The hugely popular carnival, which has traditionally been held on August Bank Holiday in the village for decades, returned to its regular slot after two years out because of the pandemic.

The carnival committee organised an array of attractions old and new for people of all ages to enjoy.

The event was officially opened by Michelle and Alan Powell, who own The Fountain Inn pub in the village.

The couple were due to open the carnival back in 2020, which would have marked their 30th year at The Fountain, but due to the pandemic the committee celebrated the milestone after 32 years instead.

As is tradition, an eclectic procession left Cannop Road at 1.30pm with decorated vehicles and locals in fancy dress parading through the village towards the carnival field.

Highlights included Cinderford’s Harmony Twirlstars, a convoy of vintage tractors and cars, and four year-old Elvis Presley impersonator Finlay Willetts.

First prize in the procession went to a float ode to Cannop Ponds, created by the local campaign group to save them on the back of a vintage pick-up.

Also ‘dressed up’ in support of the ponds campaign was a 1974 Land Rover, which won first prize for best decorated small vehicle.

The Forest Musical Society then sang their way onto the carnival field, where the Fountain’s Michelle Powell presented the Carnival Queen with her crown.

Music was also provided by Caldicot-based samba band Vehla Bataria and a scratch brass band made up of local musicians.

The main attraction at the carnival field was a ferris wheel - new for this year and funded by a “substantial” grant from Gloucestershire County Council.

Children’s entertainer Niggles kept the youngsters enthralled with his magic show, as did a bouncy castle and trampolines supplied by Megabounce.

Visitors were also able to get a photo with owls from a local falconry, with other attractions including a variety of charity stalls, a flower and vegetable show and crafts competition.