The heavens opened on the 30th Otley Carnival – but that did not stop thousands of people thoroughly enjoying it.

Large crowds lined the streets on Saturday to cheer on a parade packed with imaginative displays from schools, businesses, charities and community groups.

The weather, though, took a turn for the worse just before the procession began as the sky filled with black cloud.

A barrage of rain and hailstones sent onlookers diving for cover as the City of Leeds Pipe Band marched into Kirkgate, delivering a rousing version of Scotland The Brave, regardless.

They were followed by an eye-catching assortment of floats, walking tableaux and vehicles that included children from Farnley C of E Primary School dressed as sunflowers, carrying a Here Comes The Sun banner.

Their chants of “we want the sun!”, as heavy rain bounced off the road, drew many a sympathetic smile from the crowd.

Other standout entries included an Alice in Wonderland tableau from Westgate Primary and a collection of wizards, halflings, heroes, and even the dragon from The Hobbit, courtesy of Otley Methodist Scout Group.

Elsewhere in the parade there were circus acts, from The Whartons Primary, a martial arts group, Thunderbirds fron Otley Parish Scouts, cheerleaders, a mini-bus ‘cake’ from Otley Action for Older People, and a live band on Otley Pub Club's float.

And 2nd Otley Scouts – involved in the carnival since it started in 1983, and celebrating their centenary – had a tent up on their float with members enjoying a ‘campfire’ song.

All of them were cheered as they made their way to the carnival showground, at Bridge End, and its waiting array of display groups, games, giant inflatables, and stalls. By the time the procession got there, they and the following crowds were rewarded for a while with some very welcome sunshine.

Town Mayor Councillor Pam Gill thanked all the organisers and participants as she declared the carnival open.