The countdown to Christmas began in earnest in Narberth on Saturday when the town's 12th annual winter carnival sparkled into life.

A crowd of nearly 6,000 people packed the brightly-lit streets and revelled in the Yuletide merriment as the town was transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland.

Taking around 45 minutes to make its two circuits of the one-way system, the lively pageant, heralded by a burst of fireworks and a whistle from carnival favourite, the steam engine Velfrey Queen, was a particular triumph for organisers this year after overcoming both early insurance challenges and the day's wet weather.

Headed by a police car and followed by Milford Town Band, playing seasonal tunes, the cavalcade featured a host of imaginative walking entries, eight decorated vehicles, carrying all manner of figures from Christmas characters and Irish leprechauns to motorcycle enthusiasts and a Nativity scene, plus a vintage fire engine bearing a giant Santa, the town's own firemen aboard their snow-making pump and a St. John Ambulance.

Also joining in the fun was 'Schnorbitz', a St. Bernard dog from Pembroke Dock, who was in festive mood as he pulled his present-filled sleigh around the route and fire-eating stuntman, Josh Owen, who proved he was hot stuff with Vidwyn's Amazing Show as he drew gasps of amazement from spectators for his skills, while for Llysyfran YFC the carnival was turned into a film set as they created 'The Italian Job', complete with bus and three Minis.

But, one of the highlights had to be the sleigh carrying Father Christmas, who had taken time out from his busy schedule to spend the day in Narberth with his Snow Queen, Rebecca Evans.

Although entries were slightly down on previous years, the effort made by the floats and individual fancy dress competitors, still gave the judges, Tenby Winter Carnival organisers Ann Rowell and Elaine Rowe and David and Jackie Jones, of Narberth's Plas Hyfryd Hotel, a real headache in selecting the winners.

Said carnival chairman, Frieda John, who took part in the parade aboard the eye-catching Rainbows End float from Woods Cross Carnival Club: "It was a fantastic day and the town was buzzing all day, especially the afternoon show at the Queen's Hall.

"Early estimations are that we have raised one of the best amounts of money ever; as of Sunday night we had raised £3,100, which included £1,000 from the bucket collection, £750 from Gareth Rowe's pig roast and several generous donations.

"I would like to thank the army of people who worked hard all day to make the event a success, without their help it would not have been possible."

Sadly though, there was no crock of gold for the 'Rainbow's End' entry from Woods Cross Carnival Club this year, for their ingenious lorry-borne entry broke down just yards from the judging ceremony.

"We suffered a fuel blockage and broke down, losing all our power, but we had lots of fun and that's what it's all about, and are now looking forward to Tenby and Pembroke Dock carnivals," said Frieda.

"It was a really good day and lots of good things have come out of it."

Proceeds from this year's carnival will be divided between the Pembroke and Tenby branch of the St. John Ambulance and Narberth junior football.

Results were:

Best large float over 17 feet - The Italian Job (Llysyfran YFC).

Best small float under 17 feet - KCF.

Best adult group - Christmas Rescue (Schnorbitz and Joyce Lefort).

Best children's group - Tavernspite Playgroup.

FOOTNOTE: Two of the winners, KCF and Tavernspite Playgroup, are asked to contact Kristian John on 07811748333 to collect their trophies and prizes.