Cloudy weather did not stop people turning out for Darlington Community Carnival.

The event, which was held in Stanhope Park, was officially launched on Saturday by the Mayor of Darlington, Councillor Doris Jones, and was followed by a street parade through the town centre.

Youngsters from 18 community groups in Darlington spent months preparing floats for the event, based on the theme of endangered species.

Pandas, sharks, elephants and birds were some of the animals they created.

The procession left Stanhope Park and made its way through the town, along High Row, before returning to the park an hour later.

Adults and children of all ages were treated to a host of activities. On Saturday night, musicians the Rhythm Bandits performed at the Arts Centre. A barbecue party was also held at the centre.

A green fair was held yesterday in Stanhope Park, after the original venue at the Market Place was changed to avoid a clash with revellers in town for the World Cup final. The fair featured local produce and campaign and wildlife groups.

A fairground kept children entertained as well as other activities, such as balloon modelling and face-painting.

Live entertainment was provided by MC Tom Hughes. Other acts included The Amicus Music Project, Captains of Industry, and Last Chance Texaco.

Darlington Mind was chosen as the carnival's charity.