THIS year's Ilminster Carnival was described by a member of the organising committee as: "an unforgettable night."

For the first time this year, Ilminster held both the Children’s Carnival and the Grand Procession on the same day (October 5), which created a “great atmosphere throughout the town”.

Overall, the day brought good weather for the children’s carnival which saw local groups and children show off their amazing creations - including their decorated umbrellas and float designs.

Brad Amor, who is part of the Ilminster Carnival Committee said: “This was a great way to get the town ready for the grand procession in the evening.”

For the carnival committee, the day started early in the morning, with all the volunteers putting out necessary signage and cones around the town and surrounding areas ready for the grand procession that evening.

Once the children’s carnival results were announced, road closures went into place along the carnival line-up with floats and other entries starting to arrive for the procession.

Brad also said: “We were pleased to have 46 amazing entries taking part in this year’s carnival which made their way through the town from 7.15pm with the weather holding out for the majority of the evening.

“The streets were full of spectators throughout the town ready to see a great parade.”

Once the last float passed the finish line, the results were all collated, and the results presentation took place at 10.30pm in the market square with all participating clubs attending to celebrate the evenings procession and to collect their well-earned awards.

Members of the committee were then out until the early hours of Sunday morning collecting signs back in ready for next year.

On Sunday morning, with lots of help, the Ilminster Carnival Committee also had the task of counting all the money that was collected during the carnival.

If you would still like to donate and show your support for Ilminster Carnival, you can donate online via their PayPal donation page: www.ilminstercarnival.co.uk/paypal-donation-page.

Brad said: “We would like to thank everyone who showed their support by donating and putting money in a collecting vehicle or bucket.

“Every pound will help to ensure the future of Ilminster Carnival, with costs increasing year on year we appreciate all the support we receive so we can continue to put on a great show each year.

“We would all like to say a massive thank you to all the carnivals clubs and entries who participated and put on a spectacular show and to everyone who came to watch the procession.”

Overall, £2,800 was raised on the night.