THE CARNIVAL spirit shone through the showers to make this year's event a smash hit.

Nothing dampened the enthusiasm of the participants in the grand parade or those who lined the route.

And the fun and music in Queens Park went with a swing, the bands and the fireworks providing some explosive highlights.

Organisers have been able to chalk up the 60,000 attendance figure they had hoped for, with estimated crowds of more than 40,000 on Saturday and around 20,000 on Sunday.

"That's pretty marvellous considering we missed out on the hot, sunny weather we had hoped for," said Council Leisure chief, Keith Pickton.

He and his team were especially delighted with the success of the band concerts. Saturday's, spearheaded by Bad Manners and featuring some top tribute groups, pulled in up to 6,000 listeners.

"There was a real Notting Hill atmosphere. Everyone had a great time. The police had very little trouble to deal with and were able to join in the fun," Mr Pickton added.

And Sunday's line-up of local bands also proved a winner.

"We would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the weekend so special including Gregory's at Nantwich for providing the disco sessions in between the live acts and the Limelight Club for their sponsorship," he said.

"A big thank you too to the St John Ambulance and Red Cross who provided first aid cover and to all the community groups who joined in with such enthusiasm.

The council's organising team also deserves a pat on the back."

"I am particularly delighted with the success of the music and the way it has drawn the youngsters in to support the event.

"I believe we had little trouble from teenagers because there was something for them. In fact there was music for everyone, with the bands and the acoustics marquee. It's a feature of the programme that we hope is here to stay."

Mr Pickton singled out borough mayor Mick Roberts for his special contribution to the weekend.

"He was here, there and everywhere and even mustered a tug of war team and helped judge the wrestling. Hopefully his appeal fund will get a boost from the event along with the other charities collecting in the parade and manning stalls," he added.

Winners in the carnival procession: Transport: 1, Cheshire Cats Mini Club; 2, Arriva PLC; 3, Gerald Newbrook's vintage lorry.

Youth; 1, Crewe and District Youth Centre; 2, Survivie; 3, Sea Cadets.

Community: 1, National Kidney Research; 2, Marie Curie Cancer Care; 3, Disability Resource Exchange.

Princess: 1, Marshfield Bank; 2, Rookwood Residents' Association Rose Queen and attendants; 3, Shavington village.

Troupe: 1, St Michael's; 2, Lavells; 3, Davenham CR Association.

Trade: 1, ASDA; 2, Safeway; 3, John Taylor.

Nantwich Young Farmers were the tug-of-war winners.