SELDOM has Ledbury High Street been so packed as it was on carnival day, last Monday.

Carnival committee chairman Steve Clegg estimated that around 10,000 people were in town for an event, whose theme was music.

Mr Clegg said: "Our 32nd carnival was another resounding success. The procession was not as large in some other years, but the quality was there, and that has encouraged several people to say they will certainly enter a float in 2007.

"The weather generally behaved itself and Ledbury people and visitors really came out to support us."

Bucket collections towards next year's carnival demonstrated the generosity of the crowds, with around 60,000 coins thrown in. It is thought the total will be similar to last year's £2,400.

Mr Clegg was pleased by the quality of tribute bands, My Generation and Abba Again. He was also delighted by the 12 entries in the shop window display event.

First place went to the Cottage Florist in The Southend. The Chocolate Bean in Church Lane was second and St Michael's Hospice Shop in The Homend third.

The procession was led by the kilted British Airways Pipe Band, making a first appearance at the carnival. First prize in the float section went to The Langland Friends with their colourful offering, Grease is the Word. Ledbury Community Choir was second with South Pacific. In third place, Ledbury Rotary Club offered Notes at a Caribbean Bar.

Marilyn Roberts won the adult fancy dress with Ride a Cock Horse. Keith Francis came second with his Sheet Music and Sally Harling third with Music through the Ages.

Rebecca Shaw, as the Pied Piper, won the children's fancy dress in the younger section, while Ceri Stevenson won the older section, also as the Pied Piper. Chelsea and Alice Fleck came second as The Cheeky Girls and Jessica Yeates third as Dolly Parton.

Carol, Emma and Christopher Somers triumphed as The Von Trapp Children in the best bike, pram, hand-propelled vehicle and walking section.

Wayne Gardner won the equine section as the Masked Rider, Zorro.

Wyatts Home and Gardens won the commercial section with its take on The Wizard of Oz. Much Fawley Farm was second with Oliver Twist.