A UFO landed to join ghosts, ghouls and witches at Todmorden Carnival.

Organisers of the "Hallowe'en in May" event breathed sighs of relief as the skies cleared after rain and hail had threatened to ruin the day.

The carnival parade featured all manner of witches, warlocks and ghostly spectres but the most spooky event was the mysterious breakdown of the mayor's golden vintage car.

The vehicle's engine suddenly gave up the ghost and the vehicle had to be towed to Centre Vale Park, where mysteriously it suddenly started up again!

The mayor, Coun Joe Rez, who is also carnival committee chairman, said: "Apart from that mishap it was a really good procession with eight floats and four bands."

Greeting visitors to the park was a giant UFO, a wooden structure provided by local businessman Paul Smith, as a more weatherproof and comfortable alternative to the traditional marquee.

Coun Rez said: "We have spent nearly twice as much as normal this year on entertainment in the park to encourage the crowds to stay here for longer.

"That will also help the many local charities who have set up their stalls. This is one of their main money-raising days."

Entertainment included displays by members of the Starlight Circus including trapeze artists, dancing troupes, the Britannia Coconutters from Bacup, a dog display, marching bands, five-a-side soccer, a fun fair and much more.

Coun Rez added: "It has been a good event organised by an ever-dwindling number of volunteers. Any profits will go to local charities."