Bridgwater Carnival lights up streets and faces

Thousands of people descended upon a Somerset town on Saturday night to soak up the excitement and atmosphere of the UK's oldest carnival.

The bright carts at the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival lit up the night as people from across the county, and even as far as the United States, celebrated a centuries old tradition.

The event marks the start of the carnival circuit which sees the clubs travel to Highbridge and Burnham-on-Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Shepton Mallet, Wells and Glastonbury in November.

Although the carnival did not officially kick off until 18:00 GMT, several roads were closed hours before in preparation for the influx of visitors and, of course, fantastic carts.

About 1,000 people performed in the procession, which was made up of 99 entries, including carts and walking participants.

Bridgwater Carnival is the first of seven annual carnival circuits in the county that happen around Bonfire Night

Bridgwater Carnival is the oldest in the UK and one of the largest illuminated processions in Europe

This cart went for a circus theme with Nelly the Elephant proudly on display

All sorts of themes can be spotted aboard the carts, including this rock theme

People of all ages attend the event every year

Somerset's creativity shines through during carnival season

There are always plenty of happy faces at the carnival