CARNIVAL organisers bucked the trend in Swanage at the weekend, by forging ahead with the eagerly-anticipated event despite terrible weather.

This year's carnival theme may have been 'Welcome to the Jungle' but it might as well have been 'Welcome to the Rain Forest'.

Thousands of people flocked to the seaside town for the carnival procession, despite high winds and rain that forced other events across Dorset to be abandoned.

Swanage Carnival and Regatta organisers remained steadfast and refused to let the weather put a dampener on Sunday's parade, which formed up as usual and snaked its way to the main arena at Sandpit Field.

And as 50mph gusts wrecked havoc at other south west venues, people turned out in their droves to support Swanage, hailing it a huge success.

Carnival committee member Becky Mack told the Daily Echo: "This has taken a whole year to organise and we're not going to let the weather ruin it.

"It is a bit frustrating but everyone's in good spirits and we're getting on with it."

This year's procession was packed with colourful floats, stilt walkers and marching bands.

Swanage Regatta and Carnival will be taking place all week, with a host of activities planned.

These include a dog show, masquerade magic night, cooking demonstrations, a wheelbarrow race, go-kart racing, running races and treasure hunts.

A carnival spokesman said: "As a self-funded organisation, Swanage Regatta and Carnival Association is run by volunteers, we are hugely grateful for the support we receive from our community, local businesses and all the visitors who join us during the week.

"So help us to make this year’s safari themed carnival a roaring success.

"Please have fun, enjoy the entertainment and please please put some money in our buckets."

Each year the carnival raises thousands of pounds for local charities and organisations.

This year's supported causes include St Mary's Catholic Primary School, Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, Swanage Stroke Club and the National Coastwatch Institution.