IT WAS just as well Liphook Carnival entries brought their own floats last Saturday, as torrential rain drenched all those in attendance – but failed to douse the spirits.

Pipers, adorned in raincoats, marched proudly through the village as one float opted for transparent ponchos over their Alice in Wonderland-themed costumes.

Elsewhere, damp-haired Vikings engaged in spirited battles through the village, and Liphook Girl Guides showcased their creativity with a ‘best overall’ prize-winning sweets-themed float. This sugar-laden wonder boasted giant Liquorice Allsorts, Parma Violets, Love Hearts, lollipops, Jelly Babies and much more, many shielded under umbrellas to avoid fizzling away.

The Brazilian Samba band Batala Encontro added to the atmosphere, their vibrant music and colourful LED-lit drums echoing through the rain-soaked square as they danced through the rain – not a brolly in sight!

The Conservative candidate for the new Farnham & Bordon constituency, Greg Stafford, took on a royal duty, graciously crowning the carnival queen, while a trio of dinosaurs, undeterred by the rain, rattled tins for charity.

A steam engine from Hollycombe Steam in the Country chugged through the rain-sodden streets.

Carnival-goers could grab a bite to eat and refreshment along Station Road, visit the funfair at the Millennium Green or check out what the local shops, pubs, restaurants, and cafés had to offer – many of which had stayed open for the occasion.

Fireworks later lit up the sky at the Recreation Ground, which had been specifically chosen that year to allow people with pushchairs or mobility aids to enjoy the display.

But the night didn’t stop there as The Links Tavern and Liphook and Bramshott Social Club had live bands on from 9pm until late.

All the money raised at this year’s Liphook Carnival will support local charities and organisations.