THOUSANDS of spectators and participants brought plenty of cheer to Ilkley Carnival today despite the weather making its own contribution to this year's Best of British theme.

Schools and youth groups which took part in the colourful traditional Bank Holiday Monday parade through Ilkley town centre cleverly worked some wet weather clothing and umbrellas into their floats and walking displays, as a downpour and blustery conditions hit the town just as the parade set off along The Grove at 11.30am.

People packed into the town centre to watch the parade make its way along The Grove, down Brook Street, and across the river to the main carnival field, on East Holmes Field.

Main attraction this year was fast-paced medieval-style mounted combat and skills at arms provided by Knights of the Damned. The group, with its four knights on horseback, squires and jester, presented high speed action, duels with blazing weapons and opportunities for families to cheer for the champion of their choosing.

A falconry display, children's football tournament and display by cheerleaders added to the action on the field.

As ever, for many, the highlight of the carnival, however, was the parade through the town centre, which this year adopted the theme 'Best of British'.

Schools, playgroups and community organisations taking part used plenty of imagination to come up with their own take on the theme, presenting a birthday parade for the Queen, complete with guardsmen and carriage, an apt tribute to the British weather, British inventions - ranging from the chocolate bar to the light bulb, British bands, the great British seaside tradition, British transport, ranging from British Airways to world's fastest steam locomotive The Mallard, and 'Britain's Got Talent', featuring highlights of British art, literature and music.

Outside the Box cafe also took part, and Ilkley Playhouse, and the Wright Theatre Arts Dance Academy included performers from their productions of Betty Blue Eyes and Peter Pan.

The parade was led by Ilkley Town Crier, Isabel Ashman, and civic dignitaries following in an open-topped double deck bus.

Further attractions on the carnival field included a funfair, Ilkley Rocks - stage showcasing local bands, a dog show and a classic car show, trade stands, sideshows and children's activities, and stalls set up by local community organisations.

The carnival itself raises money for local causes, and this year the main beneficiaries are Ilkley Cricket Club, Ilkley Christchurch Scout Group, and Aware (Airedale and Wharfedale Autism Resource).