SATURDAY'S Marlow Bottom Rose Carnival was branded "one of the best" in history as thousands of people descended into the valley for the event.

The annual carnival, staged by the Friends of Burford School and the playing field management committee, hosted a day of stalls, competitions and activities for the family, which saw up to 3,000 people turn out.

The carnival, which took place at Burford School and Marlow Bottom playing fields, recorded its best ever attendance and looks set to announce record profits raised for good causes.

Organiser Sabine Bolier-Carp said the hot weather had persuaded more people than usual to attend.

She said: "It was fantastic. The weather was lovely, there were lots of people and also lots helping. There was an amazing amount of support."

Youngsters were treated to a range of activities, from puppet shows and fairground rides to face painting and dancing.

There were more than 40 stalls as well as a craft fair, barbecue and main showcase arena which played host to a number of acts throughout the day.

This included the crowning of the carnival queen, Phoebe Mansfield, aged eight, and Rose Princess, Jessica Lowden, six.

The two girls, who both attend Burford School, were picked up from their homes in vintage cars and paraded around the village and in front of the crowds.

Wearing their own special dresses, the two were then taken on a walk around the carnival by Marlow Bottom district councillor, Malcolm Blanksby.

Jessica's mother, Tracy Lowden, said: "She loved it. They had a crown of carnations and a bouquet of flowers given to them."

Cllr Blanksby then paid for the girls to have a go at the activities and on the rides, and he also agreed to have his face painted for charity in the style of Spiderman. His efforts raised around £60.

This was to coincide with the superhero theme of the carnival. The funds raised on the day will be shared between Marlow Bottom playing fields and improving Burford School's playground area.

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