FOOLS and horses were among the thousands who attended Somersham’s nine-day carnival which came to a close yesterday (June 23).

The carnival, which first ran in 1977, started with a community games event on Saturday June 15 and after a week of concerts, shows and competitions finished at the weekend with a parade through the village on Saturday.

The penultimate day of the carnival was so busy that the scouts ran out of Burgers and despite a brief shower the beer tent, local stalls and charities all reported a roaring trade.

Jon Carpenter, a member of the carnival committee who spent six months organising the event, said: “Saturday was a great day. The weather was fine, we had a fantastic float show and thousands of people must have been on the field on the day.

“Everyone who came along seemed to really enjoy themselves and the whole nine days were a huge success and really brought the community together.”

Prizes were given throughout the week for the extraordinary effort put in by those participating in the carnival.

Penny’s beauty salon in the high street won the prestigious award for the best decorated shop, importing sand to create their very own beach.

The prize for the best independent float in the parade was won by the “Jolly Picture” for their Only Fools and Horses themed vessel and best school float was won by Park Hall Play Group.

Among the rest of the week’s highlights was a junior concert involving Somersham Primary and Whitehall School at St John’s Parish Church, a dog show and the celebration of Dews Coaches 60th birthday.