Colourful parade hits the streets of Harpenden (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Colourful parade hits the streets of Harpenden

10:23am Tuesday 24th May 2011 in News By Manisha Mistry

SOME 3,000 people turned out for the annual Harpenden Carnival this weekend.

Despite a few early rain showers the sun came through for the rest of the day, which was organised by Harpenden Round Table.

The colourful procession made its way from Bowers Way to Rothamsted Park where a packed programme of events began at 12.30pm.

After a panel of judges handed our prizes for the best carnival float, visitors were able to enjoy fun fair rides, stalls and food and drink.

The 1st Harpenden Brownies won the top prize for their costumes.

One of this year's main attractions was stuntman Mark Stannage, who specialises in high falling stunts.

The sealed knot, which performs battle re-enactments, used cavalry and artillery skills to entertain the crowds, before ending the day on a high with a canon finale.

The £12,000 proceeds raised on the day will be donated to The Prostate Cancer Charity, Community Meeting Point Harpenden, Open Door St Albans, Harpenden Child Contact Centre, Herts Air Ambulance, Resolve and NOAH (New Opportunities and Horizons).

Round Table carnival chairman Graham Halkyard said, “The people of Harpenden and the surrounding area once again turned out to support their local carnival and enjoyed an afternoon of fun in the park.

"The local business community continued to provide the much needed support and this, combined with the tireless efforts Round Table members, 41 club and Harpenden Circle, made the event possible.

"Many thanks to all our sponsors and supporters."

View our picture gallery from the annual carnival.