A COUNTY Durham community made the best of glorious sunshine with crowds converging on a village for its first carnival since the outbreak of Covid.

The Staindrop Carnival, near Barnard Castle, saw community spirit boosted, with people of all generations coming together to enjoy a weekend of festivities and fun.

One of the highlights was the traditional carnival parade on Saturday with everyone dressing up for the occasion.

The Northern Echo: Joseph Gregory on one of the Tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTJoseph Gregory on one of the Tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

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Among the many imaginative costumes, included youngsters dressed as animals and insects, 70’s Glasto Guides sporting colourful hippy clothes, sports people and sunflowers.

There was also a procession of classic cars and vintage tractors.

Entertainment throughout the day included a DJ Richie Orr, making bubbles, dancing and playing music for the children, along with a local pipe band and ukulele band.

Cowie’s Funfairs provided traditional rides, while there was range of market stalls.

The Northern Echo: Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

Staindrop Carnival committee chairperson Sue Stamp said: “The day went really well and everyone enjoyed it.

“It was the first time since covid that we have been able to hold the carnival – the last one being in 2019.

“The costumes people came out with for the parade were brilliant. I thought they were really good.”

The Northern Echo: Joseph Gregory on one of the Tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTJoseph Gregory on one of the Tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

She added: “For most people on the committee it was the first time organising it – so it was a steep learning curve.

“Everyone got into the spirit of things. I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who helped make it the success it was."

Events continue on Sunday with a sports day for the children on the green and a carnival fest at the primary school.

The Northern Echo: Joseph Gregory on one of the Tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTJoseph Gregory on one of the Tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

 

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The Northern Echo: Charlie Craggs on one of the tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTCharlie Craggs on one of the tractors at Staindrop Carnival Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

 

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