IT was party time in a town near York at the weekend as residents flocked to celebrate Haxby Carnival.

More than a thousand people visited the annual event in the town, enjoying the carnival procession and fair.

"Lots of people said it was one of the best carnivals we have had for many years," said Coun Muriel Pirozek, one of the organising committee.

"It was absolutely packed full, and really extremely successful."

The carnival atmosphere kicked off with a procession down the main street through the town, including music from St Chad's Band and marching from local Guides, Cubs and Brownies and La Classique Majorettes.

Colour was added to the parade by entrants to the day's fancy dress competition, with the spectacle crowned by carnival queen Catherine Wynn and her attendants Abigail Heywood and Stephanie Dick.

There was fun on the field with almost 20 stalls, games and displays, all organised by committee chairman Pat Papadopoulos.

"Pat has done a great deal and worked very hard, but it has paid off for us all with such a successful event," said Coun Pirozek.

Updated: 10:13 Monday, July 21, 2003