THOUSANDS lined the streets for a 'lights, camera, action' themed carnival in south Oxfordshire this weekend.

Wallingford was graced with live music, street food, dance displays and a small fair in the town centre, as locals dressed up for a colourful procession and festivities.

Young and old turned out and performed, with the party spirit lasting throughout the day.

Residents began congregating on the Hithercroft industrial estate from 11am, for a procession which arrived in the town centre a couple of hours later and finished on the Kinecroft.

The long-running annual event was centred around performance this year, with previous themes including 'work and play' and William the Conqueror.

Live music played until around 8pm in the town, with performances from Girl Friday, Stanley Moon Trio and Richard Strange, among others.

Chairman of Wallingford Carnival, Laura Lee, said: "Wallingford Carnival was a huge success and I’m still getting messages and emails saying how much people enjoyed the day.

"We were so thrilled the community came out once again to support our local event and want to thank all volunteers, sponsors and entries for making the day a huge success.

"It was amazing to see the local business taking part as well as the local schools and clubs and were thrilled with our 30 entries. People constantly comment on the good old days... where are all the lorries?... Well, with three or four of this year's procession being lorries and other modes of transport... I think we’re on the right road.

"We had dance displays and the Tuneless Choir Performed. Wallingford Big Band and Singing Groups showcased the best of young talent. People were out celebrating and enjoyed the event all day."

She added that the organisers were looking for more volunteers for next year, 'as we want to continue making it bigger and better'.

She continued: "Without more volunteers, carnival will be a thing of the past... we need more help. We all have full time jobs, families and lots of other commitments but are determined to keep Wallingford longest-running event alive."

The overall processions winners were St John’s School, who are putting the £150 prize money towards school projects.

Other winners included Paddocks Pre School; who won £50 for 'Technical Merit' and took the pre-school prize; Keri the Florist won the Business award; Sinodun Players took first place in the Adult Club section; Girl Guides won the Youth Club section and Sophie and Friends won the Friends and Family award.

Town councillor Mick Kidley said: "It was good to see lots of children enjoying themselves and I would like to see more businesses next year."