A WHIRL of colours, sights and sounds descended on Huddersfield when the Caribbean Carnival came to town on Saturday.

The carnival was celebrating its 21st birthday in energetic style.

The main highlight was the spectacular parade, which made its way from the Hudawi Cultural Centre on Great Northern Street, Hillhouse, to the main carnival site at Greenhead Park, via Huddersfield town centre.

Although the event is known as the Caribbean Carnival, one look at the thousands of people crowding the town centre streets to watch the procession made it clear this was an event for the whole community.

Young and old waited patiently to catch sight of the parade.

They were rewarded at about 2.30pm, when the 18 floats - representing local organisations and Caribbean countries - made their way slowly down John William Street.

Leading the parade was senior Carnival Queen Samantha Boatswain, of the Caribbean Carnival Crusade Club, with her carefully-crafted costume representing the planets.

The junior Carnival Queen was Leeanne Benjamin, of the Pure Elegance Children's Club.

Her costume had a musical theme and was based on a piano.

Following behind, to the upbeat sounds of Caribbean music, were children and adults in outrageous outfits, including pink peacocks, stiltwalkers, butterflies, birds and rainbows.

One float celebrated the approaching summer holidays with a ``school's out" theme.

Parade participants had come from as far away as London, Preston and Luton.

Tim Jones, 23, was watching the carnival for the first time.

He said: "I think it's fantastic. The costumes are just amazing. They must have taken months to make. It gives a really nice atmosphere to the town."

At about 4pm, the parade reached Greenhead Park, where entertainment had begun around 1.30pm.

The throngs of people sampled the delights of Caribbean cuisine at a variety of food stands.

There were plenty of games and stalls to keep the children entertained, while adults sat back and enjoyed the summer sunshine.

There was also music from Buka Africa, who opened the show, along with Huddersfield group Dancing Fly, Rasta President, Harlem Gem and Soca Survivors.

At 7pm, the fun in the park was over.

But the celebrations from 10pm to 4am at the Hudawi Centre, with entertainment from soca artist The Explainer and special guests.