LIPSTICK, blonde wig and fishnet stockings -- the essential kit for any participant of the carnival, whether they be male or female! writes Karen Spibey

I had none of them, but that did not stop me from taking part in the grand carnival procession in Prestwich on Sunday.

Prepared for rain with my waterproof jacket, yes, but expecting to join the happy throng weaving its way through the crowded streets -- not quite.

Nevertheless, I was handed a collection bucket by MP Ivan Lewis and encouraged to "shake it" along Rectory Lane.

Along the way I met one man who knew all about the three-item carnival survival kit, as he unpacks it year after year.

Barry Webster has been taking part in Prestwich Carnival since 1962 and now at the age of 55 he has no intention of hanging up his stockings yet.

Barry, who always chooses a female character to dress up as, is a familiar sight in the colourful parade.

"This year I am a nurse, but I also like the French maid and schoolgirl," he said, "I like doing it and I have always done it. I like helping other people. I will continue to do it as long as my legs will allow me to!"

This dedication and enthusiasm from participants and organisers is what makes the carnival such a success.

Certainly the spectators who lined the streets, armed with bags full of loose change and a cheery wave, agreed.

Pensioner Bill Nield was watching his son, daughter-in-law and grandson. He said: "I think the parade is very good. The turnout is fabulous even though the weather is inclement. I like the bands best of all."

Mrs Caroline Wallace watched the parade with her husband and two daughters, April (12) and Samantha (8). She said: "It was good this year, there seemed to be more in it. The best bit was the street walkers. "

Mrs Marie Bradley said she liked the marching bands, especially the smart uniforms. She added: "The queens were lovely. Last year the parade was better than it had been for a long time, but this year was even better."

Around 200 people took part in the parade itself, making it bigger and brighter than ever, and featuring lots of new attractions, including the 16ft street walkers and Harley Davidson riders from the Goldwing Owners Club.

Many children and adults dressed according to the carnival's clown theme, including Prestwich Community High School's headteacher, Mr Geoff Barlow and youngsters from Prestwich and Whitefield District Guides and Brownies.

Other groups opted for their own fancy dress ideas and crowds cheered on youngsters dressed as cartoon characters, Lord of the Rings, Father Christmas and the Vikings.

Janet McAvinue, parade organiser, said: "I cried in the morning when it rained but then a blue patch of sky appeared and the weather brightened up. It rained for a few minutes during the parade but it didn't seem to bother anyone. We went all out this year and I was very pleased with the end result. There was a good atmosphere, lots of music and plenty of effort."

Fun and frolics continued late into the afternoon in St Mary's Park with a Tarts and Fairies football match, belly dancers demonstration and junior football tournament.

Tribute artists JK as Robbie Williams and Justlike Timberlake rocked the audience with their live performances, along with 50s and 60s tribute acts Elvis Williamson and Dave Ward as Roy Orbison.

David Curtis, joint chairman of the Sunshine Team, said: "Thank goodness the sun came out in the afternoon. It was amazing how people responded -- I think they got the message to come out and have a good time.

There were fewer people than last year, but that was down to the weather. Everyone was so supportive and I think they were pleased and proud to be from Prestwich."