Crowds of all ages lined the streets of Carlisle to watch puppets make their way into the heart of the city during the annual pageant parade.

The vibrant procession - which also included street dancers and cheerleaders - set off from from Tullie House and made its way along Castle Street for what has become a yearly tradition.

The puppet parade, which was proceeded by a family fun day in the heart of the city, is part of a 10-day programme of events that links in with the ancient proclamation of the Great Fair, which will be held on Saturday.

"It's a brilliant turnout," Colin Glover, leader of Carlisle City Council, told the News & Star.

"It's always such a great atmosphere at the pageant and it's always a little bit different every year, which makes it interesting. It's the beginning of the celebration to mark the proclamation that says people are free to hold stalls in the city and also kick-starts a week of events.

"It's very much a reason to celebrate Carlisle's history and tradition and I think people appreciate that.

"It's something that means a lot to us and it's something that we've been preparing for since Christmas."

Graham Main, executive producer of Carlisle Fringe, said: "Carlisle Pageant officially opened Carlisle Fringe Festival in the heart of the city with members of the community coming together to lift off the newest addition to Carlisle’s cultural calendar.

"We were thrilled to see so many people taking part.

"We asked the people of Carlisle to get out and support the festival and support they did."