CARNIVAL-GOERS in Ipplepen on Saturday enjoyed what has been described as a fantastic atmosphere, not to mention a bit of luck with the weather, writes Nigel Canham.

Press officer Julie Eales said spots of rain in the build- up to the evening procession had concerned the committee, although worries later proved to be groundless.

An unexpected thunderstorm, however, rounded the evening off in spectacular fashion.

'It was a fantastic atmosphere with nearly everyone in the village turning out,' she said.