Beccles carnival parade in full swing. Picture: James Bass

THERE was fun for all the family on an action-packed weekend of entertainment as one of the major events on the north Suffolk calendar was hailed a success.

The popular Beccles Carnival procession took centre stage this afternoon (Sunday) as hundreds of people lined the streets to welcome more than 40 floats.

With the weather befitting the occasion, a fun-day had set the ball rolling on the annual bonanza as the entertainment began at Beccles Quay yesterday (Saturday) with a funfair, stalls and music.

And there was plenty to keep the children active - with a teddy bears picnic proving to be a popular draw with games and prizes up for grabs, while Picture Studios of Lowestoft were on the look-out for youngsters aged up to three in the annual Beccles Bonny Baby competition.

The annual fancy dress competition was also held along with Beccles Carnival’s Glam Gran 2012 contest. As well as music and other entertainment, the Lowestoft dog agility team showcased their skills to bring the curtain down on an afternoon of fun.

And with the call to all to enter into the carnival spirit, this was certainly in evidence as a range of colourful costumes, Olympic-themed innovations and fancy floats made up the main parade on Sunday.

The Beccles Carnival procession, which dates back to the pre 1900s, saw the traditional parade leave the Rainbow superstore car park at 1pm and wend its way through Gosford Road, Station Road, Market Street, The Walk, Saltgate, Northgate and Fen Lane.

Once the parade reached Beccles Quay there was a static car, steam and vintage display on the Beacon field.

Moore’s Music Roadshow and Miss Beccles 2012 Jodie Harris then provided the music in the main arena before locals embarked on their own mini Olympics - as running races for all ages were held.

During Sunday afternoon there were also various of displays from Caroline Yardy’s Zumba, the Southwold and Reydon Corps Of Drums, Lowestoft Dog Agility and much more.