Hundreds braved erratic weather to catch a glimpse of the Whitehaven Carnival's spectacular floats and dance routines.

Star Wars characters, rock stars, giants and superheroes paraded through the town and a dance-off, filled with traditional dancing, flips and tricks took place in Castle Park.

St Begh's School scooped two awards, including the prestigious Best in Parade award, for its Rio Olympics-themed float.

Rachael Doran, a teacher at St Begh's, said the pupils made the colourful display with costumes, flags, a mascot and a specially-designed torch all by themselves. The children have been learning about the Olympics in school and have been holding events, such as an Olympics-themed sports day, to mark this year's games.

She added: "It's been brilliant. Parents have come up to us and said that these events will stay with the children for the rest of their lives, and you can't buy that."

Other winners were, dance school Pop Steps, Stix Percussion, Darling Manor, Cumbria Superheroes, Jericho School and Cheer Fitness and Fun. This year's carnival queen was 13-year-old St Benedict's pupil Katrina George, from Whitehaven.

The parade was led by councillor Peter Tyson, chairman of Copeland Council and Esther Clements, the past president of Whitehaven and District Lions Club - which organised the event with a team of volunteers.

Coun Tyson said: "The carnival is an important event for the town and it is great for the youngsters because it gives them a lot of confidence when they perform to the public."

John Buchanan, a father from Parton, was there to cheer on his daughter Alexia in the Rock of Ages display by Cheer Fitness and Fun.

He said: "It's a great event because it gives the children and the people of town something to look forward too, especially now the maritime festival is off."