A distinct seaside dampness hung in the air, but thankfully no rain, as Swanage Carnival got underway in an ocean-inspired parade. 

Organisers breathed a sigh of relief, especially after a neighbouring carnival was soaked by torrential downpours the previous day. 

At Swanage, the only shower was a creative feature on a school's weather-themed float.

The sun shone brightly on the prize-winning mermaids and fishermen of the Swanage Angling Juniors Club as they danced their way through the streets on August 1, 2005. 

A whole flotilla of boats followed, manned by the Swanage Sailing Club, which sailed away with second prize. 

Among their ranks were a distinguished Admiral Lord Nelson and a convincing Captain Pugwash. "The ideas came from the children," said Commodore Linda Oliver, "and I think they look superb."

The underwater theme was a clear winner, with Erica Florist's "Neptune and the Sea Nymphs" also scooping a first prize. 

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It was a joyous first-time victory for the Swanage branch of the Dorset Association for the Disabled, whose "Purbeck Pirates" and their vessel, the "Unsinkable," won a top award. 

"It's the first time we've ever won anything and we are over the moon," exclaimed chairman Stan Grimsley.

The parade also showcased a touch of French flair from the Purbeck Players, dressed as the cast of 'Allo 'Allo. 

The Wareham and Purbeck Young Farmers brought a dose of retro cool as T-Birds and Pink Ladies in their replica "Greased Lightning" car. 

Presiding over the festivities were the glamorous Carnival Queen Zoe Bennett, 17, and her 11-year-old princesses, Samantha Beeston and twins Amy and Zoe Wright.