A fine array of colourful costumes brought drama to Ilkley as the town’s ‘biggest carnival parade ever’ made its way through the streets today.

Ancient Egyptians, the Imperial Army from Star Wars, dalmatians, dwarfs, Snow White and Robin Hood were among those bringing colour to the town, along with pirates, native Americans and a vast number of movie-inspired characters.

Heroes and villains delighted the crowds who thronged the initially sunny streets. But dark clouds brought cold air as the parade progressed - perfectly timed for the bone-chilling Dementors from Harry Potter.

Hundreds of schoolchildren and adults did the town proud with an extravaganza of colour and sound spanning centuries and galaxies.

And their efforts were not wasted on the crowds who thronged the route along The Grove and Brook Street, down to the showground.

Proud parents and grandparents shouted to the young participants to pose for snaps, and youngsters not taking part lined the pavements - armed with ice cream and fish and chips - to make the most of the event.

Once in the showfield, prizes for best school and best in parade were presented to Ashlands Primary for The Magic of Disney. It was an especially pleasing result for the school’s carnival organiser Becky Taylor who was in charge of Ashlands’ contribution for the sixth and final time.

“I am really elated because it has been a few years since we have won, and everyone has worked so hard,” she said.

“There are 145 children in it. They have enjoying it a great deal because they know all the characters. It has been a lot of fun.”

Headteacher Andrew Soutar praised the community feel of the event and thanked the children and parents for all their hard work.

Parents were also given a special mention by All Saints PTA co-ordinator Abbey Vale.

“We had over 60 mums and dads creating the costumes and we had the most kids we have ever had in the parade - 154,” she said.

The school delighted the crowds by putting on a show worthy of the Pharoahs - complete with mummies and golden pyramids.

Headteacher Michele Robinson said: “The children were so inspired - they have had an absolute ball.”

Ilkley Parish Council Chairman Brian Mann was among those enjoying the carnival.

“It has been a wonderful turn-out and the standard from the schools was remarkable,” he said. “An awful lot of work has gone in to make it a great day for Ilkley. Carnival organiser Suzanne Watson said: “It was certainly the biggest parade we have ever seen.”