TRADITIONAL marching bands, the cast of a musical society, classic cars and an energetic zumba performance were just some of the elements of a high-energy parade for Richmond Meet.

The unpredictable Bank Holiday weather held out and the crowds came out in force to cheer the numerous groups that performed walking floats in among some highly decorated vehicles.

The Richmond Meet Parade, at 10am on Bank Holiday Monday, took its usual route from Nuns Close car park, along Newbiggin and into town, and those lining the streets were showered with sweets and given goody bags from many of those providing the entertainment.

The cast of Richmond Operatic Society's Sister Act had one of the most entertaining floats, with set from their actual stage production on the back of a flat-bed lorry, while two marching jazz bands provided perfectly synchronised musical performances.

There were go-karts, a troupe of martial arts youngsters showed off their skills, children in fancy dress and a full zumba routine on the back of a lorry.

There were also classic cars – including a DeLorean complete with a Michael J Fox lookalike driving.

Meet president Corinne Alsop said the event had exceeded all her expectations.

"I'm chuffed to bits with how it has gone today. The crowds have really turned out for us and everyone who came with a float put so much effort into making them all spectacular.

"They have all been fantastic and I'm very proud of everyone who has been involved."

Mrs Alsop's granddaughter Maddie Orchard, nine, accompanied her in leading the Meet, and she said she was very proud of her.

Mrs Alsop said: "Maddie is a true inspiration and the reason why I have done this. She had heart surgery when she was one and has continued to have treatment for her heart throughout her life. She is an absolute inspiration."

Best decorated float went to Wackadayz; Sam's hairdresser took second place, and third place went to the go-karts.

Best comic float went to Sister Act, and the Zumba truck took second place. The grand raffle top prize was a bike from Arthur Caygill Cycles.