AS the bagpipes started to blare, the heavens opened as Great Bentley Carnival kicked off an afternoon of shower-dodging on Saturday.

The parade had just got into formation when the pipes burst into life - signalling the start of the first heavy shower, which sent band members scurrying for cover.

Wet weather threatened to put a dampener on the show but organisers say the carnival was still a success.

"It went really well considering the weather," said chairman Sara Maunton.

"We had been putting on sun cream and then the heavens opened just as the bagpipes started playing at the beginning of the procession.

"But I spoke to all the stallholders later and they said it was one of the best years they'd had, considering the weather."

Colchester Pipe Band had to pull out of the procession because of the rain, which also threatened the falconry displays in the arena.

When a gap in the showers finally allowed a bird of prey to get airborne it was promptly attacked by four seagulls who had decided to put on their own show for the crowds.

The shocked falcon flew off but later returned.

Other arena displays included a Tailwaggers dog show and majorettes competition, won by the HRC All Stars.

Thirteen carnival queen courts travelled to the event, with some coming from as far away as Dover and Hornsea.

"I don't know what time they had to leave to get here, but it was a really good turn-out," said Sara.

Clacton won the Queen of Queens award and best queen's float.

This year's procession had a movies theme, with prizes going to Great Bentley Methodist Toddlers for their Wizard of Oz display and the Brownies' Oscars parade.

"We are still working out how much we raised from the street collection and stalls," added Sara.

"But overall it was a good day."