There was a buzz in the town centre as Dorchester Carnival returned for another fun filled weekend. 

Local businesses and organisations donned colourful fancy dress and threw themselves into the carnival spirit in the sunshine as they hit the streets for this year’s theme ‘Night at the Movies’. 

Carnival organisers were delighted that 32 floats entered the annual parade, despite a struggle to keep it going this year. 

Dorchester Town Football Club won the crown for their Alice in Wonderland themed float. 

Mark Robinson, general manager at the club, said: “It’s a reflection of all the hard work that’s gone into it. We’d been setting up the float since 9am. The kids loved it, it’s been fantastic.”

Brewery Square was alive throughout the day with music from Nina Garcia, Jack Daniels, Steve Wilson and Simon Fenton. 

Mayor of Dorchester Susie Hosford said: “It’s a wonderful community event that brings lots of different groups together. 

“We are very grateful to the organisers who have got everything together to produce a fun day for everybody.”

The Grove playgroup in Dorchester won the prize for best dressed children’s walkers. 

Cheryl Graham, leader of the playgroup, said: “It’s been very exciting. The children are very little so it’s quite a big event for them. They’ve all helped to make their costumes and parents have taken part as well.”

Lisa, Sam and Ben Brown, and Mel Toms, were amongst the hundreds of people who lined the street to watch the parade. Lisa said: “It was brilliant. It’s great for the kids, and great crowds too. We’ve been coming for the last five years now.

Mel said: “What a beautiful day, you couldn’t wish for better.”