The outlook for the 27th summer festival had looked bleak with wet weather forecast, but the gods were smiling on Saturday's parade of floats as the rain clouds cleared and the sun shone.

Floats put together by schools, nurseries, pubs, clubs and community groups snaked their way through Stamford's streets and everyone seemed in high spirits and determined, as always, to savour the occasion.

There was a huge array of interpretations of this year's Fairytale and Fantasy theme in a parade led from the front by rousing music by Stamford Brass.

The parade was organised by Stamford Kiwanis, and members were out in force throughout the day rattling collection buckets for local causes.

The parade began and ended at the Recreation Ground there was plenty of entertainment on offer to keep every visitor amused.

A flea market and fun fair proved to be popular with visitors, and other attractions included dazzling displays by talented dancers and musicians from near and far.

And all heads turned skyward for the sudden aerial acrobatics of a low-flying Spitfire as it swooped over the town and tipped its wings in salute.

Festivities at the Rec continued into Sunday when the Stamford Lions Club held its ever-popular Family Day.

Attractions included the a car boot sale and funfair, a children's fancy dress competition, a baby show, and displays by Impact Falconry, the Tricky Tykes terrier team, Stamford Junior School gymnastics team and morris dancers.

Parade organiser Dean Pallet said: "It went brilliantly. It was raining very heavily in the morning, but everybody who entered turned up, and the rain and the conditions did not affect the energy and enthusiam of those on the floats.

"It was stunning, and I was pleased to see so many people in Satmford come out and support the event. A lot of people said this was one of the best parades they had seen for many years, which proves just how good it was, and the fact that we raised more £1,200, is testament that people are willing to come out and support us. I just can't thank them enough.

"A lot of other town's with this kind of event have seen them fall by the wayside, but I think people appreciate that this has to continue and that is beneftis the whole town."

Stamford mayor Jon Poznanski said: "It was a lovely weekend despite the weather. It was nice to see such a variety of events give so much pleasure to so many people, and I was particularly touched by the service held by Churches Together on the rain-soaked Rec.

"People coming together for a moment of reflection was a truly fitting ending to a memorable weekend."

Organisers are already hard at work planning next year's parade, which is taking place on Saturday, June 28. For more information contact Dean Pallett on 01780 751488.


Don't miss Friday's Mercury for more reports and pictures.

To purchase photographs from the event, see our Photos Today website.