THERE was a hot note to Hatherleigh Carnival in the early hours of the morning ? with the annual piano burning ritual.
This year two pianos had been donated, one from the church Sunday School. This was followed by the barrel run at 5am, with large crowds enjoying the dry, cold morning.
The Eggesford Hunt meet at 11am was followed by the Town Crier competition.
The judging of the shop windows was carried out by retiring carnival queen Eliza Squire, this year?s president Rowland Edwards and the carnival chairman Mark Reddaway.
Not all the shops had entered, but the visitors and local people enjoyed the ones that had made such a good effort.
Hatherleigh Silver Band led the afternoon procession from Claremont, closely followed by the prince and princess ? Josh Bush and Louise Kilsby ? who were in a silver and soft lilac sleigh, and the queen and attendants on a dark blue and silver creation. The fancy dress parade was well attended.
There was a good selection of visiting tableux and carnival royalty.
The evening events began at 6pm with the judging of those participating in the carnival, with standards being high. Many floats were decorated in the traditional crepe paper manner, with hundreds of rolls of paper being used on each float.
The carnival organisers felt it important for all floats decorated in this way to receive the grant of £90 towards costs.
Three bands took part ? Hatherleigh, Torrington and Tiverton ? playing together prior to marching through the streets. Bideford Pipe Band and The Samba also attended.
The second barrel run went safely and the day ended with a party atmosphere at the carnival disco.
The weather remained fine throughout the day and the committee thanked everyone who took part and the fantastic crowds who came along to watch the carnival.