A party mood is sweeping through Wigton today, with hundreds of people lining the streets for the town's annual carnival.

A variety of floats, with themes ranging from Alice in Wonderland to Noah's Ark made their way from the starting point outside St Cuthbert's School to the Throstle's Nest pub, cheered on by crowds of all ages.

Even a brief shower could not dampen the spirits of those taking part in the parade.

"What's a little bit of rain? We bring the sunshine," said Sonia Milligan, who was part of a group donning various fashion styles from across the decades.

"We're part of the carnival every year. It's always a good laugh and it's just something that brings the whole town together."

Donna Carruthers, who was part of the group, added: "We only really started putting things together over the past few days, but everyone looks great."

Lisa Hodgson, who owns The Stocksman restaurant, was also part in the parade - joined by friends on a float called Cirque Du Wigton.

"It's just good crack," she said. "We've been working on this since Wednesday. We had the idea of a circus theme and just carried on from there. It's taken about three days.

"It's a really good event for the kids because they love getting dressed up and I don't think the adults seem to mind it, either. We do it every year but this is the first year we've done it as this particular group."

The floats were joined by various bands as they made their way into the centre of Wigton, while crowds watched on in anticipation.

Others, dressed up in a raft of weird and wonderful costumes, were also on hand to collect donations for charity.

"We've been working on it for a few weeks," said Katie Small, who was part of the Alice in Wonderland float that carried carnival queen, Dakota Crossman.

"I've always been involved in the carnival parade, ever since I was small. I've never just stood and watched. It's just a good time for everyone in Wigton."