UP to 3,000 people braved the gloomy weather to have fun without the sun at Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival.

The annual event, which returned to Stubbylee Park in 2010 after a six-year absence and way opened by Rossendale Mayor Cllr Colin Crawforth, started at from Broadclough Mill with a colourful parade with a 1990s theme.

The procession moved on to the park where there were fairground rides, bouncy castles, food stalls and live entertainment.

That included performances from Limitless Cheerleaders, Dansworks Dance Academy, Az Kabile Belly Dancers, Lighthouse Tai Chi, Rossendale Shotokan Karate Club and Bacup Royal Court Theatre.

Organiser Catherine Smyth, from the Bacup And Stacksteads Carnival Organisation, said the event had been a great success.

Mrs Smyth said: “The carnival goes from strength to strength each year. Considering how horrendous the weather was when we were setting up in the morning it has been a great success.

“We have had a terrific response. People have given us really good feedback and it was great to see so many families with smiles on their faces.”

Mrs Smyth thanked all the volunteers, stallholders and everyone who turned up to support the carnival.

Hayley Wine, 30, who attended the event with her two children, said: “It has been really great. It’s good for the kids and a fun family afternoon.”

Danny Skaise, 30, who attended the carnival with his partner Michelle and his three children, said: “It is great to see so many people out mixing together. The children have really enjoyed it.