CHARACTERS from children’s stories helped bring a village parade alive over the weekend.

Crowds turned out in the glorious sunshine to take part in the annual Staindrop Carnival, near Barnard Castle.

This year’s event included classic cars, vintage tractors as well decorated floats as part of the procession through the village.

One was decorated to look like the magical Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter series.

Families also recreated characters from classics such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears, 101 Dalamations, Beauty and the Beast and Tales from Beatrix Potter.

There was plenty of room for comic book superheroes as well with some youngsters taking part as Batman, Superman and Ironman.

The event dates back to 1957.

Carnival king and queen this year were Toby Howey and Aimee Kilford.

Tony Smith, Staindrop Carnival events manager, said: “Everyone had a good time and the carnival is getting bigger each year.”