CAVEMEN, hillbillies and heroes paraded through rainy Warminster at the weekend, during the town’s annual carnival, watched by a crowd of thousands.

Other floats at the event, the final fixture of the Wessex Grand Prix carnival circuit, carried ancient Egyptians, cleaning ladies and Roman soldiers.

The parade, which also included many walking groups, was lead by 10 town criers, with the fire service, police and marching bands in tow.

Among them, providing music and dancing, were the Stardust Majorettes, the Meridian Corps of Drums, the Dolphin Marching Bands and Devizes Majorwrecks.

Sandra Major, the carnival committee chairman for 14 years, said: “We have had a lot of feedback from people, saying what a lovely carnival it was this year, despite the rain.

“It all ran smoothly and there was a fun atmosphere. Loads of people came dressed up in their Halloween costumes and we got the numbers we were hoping for.”

The parade set off at 6.45pm from Bourne Road, then moved through Market Place and High Street, to finish in Church Street.

Despite the success of the event, now more than a century old, organisers have warned its future is in jeopardy unless more volunteers offer to help raise funds.

Mrs Major said: “We are only a small committee and we have to do fundraising all through the year to keep the carnival going.

“A lot of the money raised on the day is given to local groups, so we rely on tombolas and bag packing and that sort of thing.

“We don’t necessarily want new committee members, just a few people who can help for a couple of hours at these sort of events.”

To volunteer, call Mrs Major on 01985 217050, or email smajor2@toucansurf.com.