The number of floats was disappointing, although some groups joined on foot, and the procession was won by Greenham Community Centre, with the Salvation Army winning the young people category.

Park House band Conscience saw off two bands from Downs School to win the Battle of the Bands event.

Town centre manager Mitch Roberts had outsourced the stalls to an events company, and the day was marred when police closed down the bar, which did not have permission to sell booze in the public park. But by the evening, the bar was up and running, as the evening bands started, with Oxford nine-piece latino band Salsoneros headlining.

Carnival chairman Clive Williams said: “This year’s carnival had some notable successes. Although the sun only occasionally showed its face, the carnival spirit shone on those that took part.”

This year’s carnival had switched from the usual Sunday to Saturday to boost attendances, but ended up clashing with the event of the year at Hyde Park.