NELLIE the Elephant packed her trunk and said hello to the circus, a magician, Aladdin, and 101 Dalmations.

It was midday on Sunday and adults, children, and a vast array of colourful creatures were lining up for the grand procession of floats from the fire station to Bellister Haughs.

A few heavy showers of rain were never going to stop Haltwhistle folk celebrating the 25th anniversary of the revival of Haltwhistle Carnival.

“We’re hardened to it,” said carnival committee chairman Michael Glenwright.

“The effort everyone has gone to in making these wonderful floats and fancy dress outfits – there’s no way they’re going to let the rain spoil the fun.”

They didn’t, and the procession which took in Park Road, Westgate, Main Street, Lanty’s Lonnen and Avenue St Meen, was one of the most spectacular ever.

Quite how a scene from Call the Midwife was recreated on the back of a truck is anyone’s guess.

Musical comedy Sister Act and a political satire float were joined by steam engines and other vintage vehicles.

There were musicians and Morris dancers along the route, and the streets were lined with onlookers.

“I don’t think the weather affected the attendance,” said Michael. “Once again I am over the moon with the support we’ve received.”

Immaculately turned out at the front of the procession were carnival princess Sophie Surtees and her attendants Phoebe Davidson, Chelsie Postma, Maddie Graham, Cerys Whitehead, Jay Bowman and James Rickerby.

They were joined at the carnival field by guest judge Colin Briggs.

The TV newscaster was partially disguised in a traditional English cap and overcoat.

But the presence of the BBC man was recognised once he picked up the microphone to aim some good humour at fancy dress-clad award winners.

He said: “What amazes me is the vast numbers of people who come out here on carnival day, and they are determined to enjoy themselves.

“You can see the effort that goes into the floats and the outfits, as well as a lot of creative talent.

“There’s a good, healthy, friendly rivalry, and they go the extra mile for this very special day in the calendar.

“It’s a pleasure to be invited to such an event, and long may it continue.”

The carnival field, at Bellister Haughs, was a paradise for entertainment seekers.

A big wheel, carousel and waltzer all moved along to the tune of a traditional fairground organ.

“I love bringing the family along to the carnival,” said Haltwhistle man Peter Nixon, who now lives in Newcastle.

“There’s plenty to keep the little ones occupied. We know so many people here, and the atmosphere is always nice and friendly, regardless of the weather.”

There was live music from the Blue Jam Samba Band and Smoking Guns, as well as Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, gymnastics and more.

Hearty food was served in the carnival tea tent, while a few hardy souls set up stalls offering tombolas, arts, crafts and bric-a-brac.

At the far end of the field was the most fascinating car park in Haltwhistle.

The vintage section always attracts a lot of interest, and this year’s selection offered traction engines, tractors and cars.

Among the old-time vehicles was a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, which served as the wedding car of current owner Alec Scott 40 years ago.

Billy Treloar, who runs the vintage section, said owners had brought their respective sets of wheels from far and wide.

“We get a lot of people coming to look at them,” said Billy. “It’s not just the men and boys either, as you might expect. I think people are always fascinated by the transport of yesteryear.”

Carnival day was a culmination of a week-long programme of events, which included a tea dance, children’s discos, a duck race, a party in the park, a car treasure hunt and an open bowls competition.

On Saturday, the carnival field was populated by a car boot sale, a petting zoo, and fun dog show, as well as the vintage vehicles.

If the 25th anniversary of its 1992 revival is anything to go by, the Haltwhistle Carnival looks set up for many more years to come.