CONTESTANTS dressed as England manager Sven Goran Erikson, his partner Nancy and 11 footballers, won a prize as the group causing most fun in a carnival procession.

The parts were played by postman John Emerson, his wife Jean and a team of friends in the Meet parade in Barnard Castle yesterday.

Mr Emerson said: "We just hope our victory proves a good omen for the real England team in the Euro championships in Portugal."

The number of decorated floats was reduced to five, about half the usual turnout, because health and safety regulations required extra safety measures on vehicles taking part.

But Meet chairman Andy Willsmore said other features, including fire engines, Army vehicles, a vintage charabanc, bands and fancy dress contestants ensured the procession was as spectacular as ever.

Meet queen Anya Thomas, 13, travelled on a float with princesses, Anne Longstaffe and Emma Coupland.

But the town's Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor John Watson and sister, Margaret, walked all the way.

Coun Watson said: "It makes us feel closer to the public."

Children from National Polytunnels, a company in Bowes, won the parade championship and £70 prize with a scene from Willie Wonka's chocolate factory.

Other awards went to dancing girls from community groups in Hawaiian costumes, led by Angela Grady, gospel singers conducted by Pamela Dixon as a vicar, and a Kinninvie team organised by Councillor Peter Stubbs.

Coun Stubbs, a member of Teesdale District Council, said that after 21 years of taking part he was sorry the new regulations caused some organisations to stay away.

He said the rules, meaning a rope had to be put round the platform of each vehicle to stop people falling off, was too difficult to comply with on most big lorries.

But retired nurse Peggy Winchester said she supported the regulations, because she had fallen off a procession lorry and broken her pelvis some years ago.

"Anything that makes it safer has to be welcomed," she said.

Other events during the Meet weekend were also hailed a success.