WOODSTOCK Carnival kicked off its 30th anniversary year with processions, street artists and local bands.

Organisers decided on a ‘four seasons’ theme to pay tribute to England’s changeable climate and dramatic seasons – with Vivaldi’s famous score providing the musical accompaniment.

The procession of floats began at 6pm, before local bands including Cooper Black got people up and dancing the evening away in the Market Place.

Committee chairman Dennis Allen said: “I think there were about 2,500 people at the carnival, which is brilliant. We tried a lot of new things this year, including a traditional fete area and samba music bands, which the crowds seemed to really like.

“Given the weather forecasts, I’d certainly say the event was a big success.”