THE Swanage Carnival has awarded its largest-ever donation of £30,900 to 23 organisations following the success of this year’s carnival.  

The funds were presented during the annual celebratory evening held at the Mowlem Theatre where representatives from the chosen organisations were invited to attend and receive their donations.  

The funds were raised over the course of the Carnival’s week-long festivities which saw a tremendous participation from residents and visitors alike. 

Carnival chairman Darren Strong said: “We had everything from top entertainment, new acts and of course wall to wall sunshine which always adds a little more magic to the carnival atmosphere. 

“This year’s theme Jurassic Rocks was well received and really caught the imagination of people and also our wonderful local shops and businesses. 

“The week itself was its usual madcap array of wonderful performances and entertainment, music, dancing and I wish to thank every red and yellow shirt on the committee.” 

The Swanage Carnival is an annual highlight, attracting thousands of visitors to the town and showcasing a vibrant array of parades, live music, fireworks and family activities. 

Among this year's event was the Flintstones parading alongside miners, disco dancers, sailors and bikers among a host of floats in Sunday’s parade.

Plans by the Swanage Carnival Committee are already underway for next year’s carnival between July 26 and August 2.