The century-old community party returned on Sunday after 10 years in the wilderness – but, judging by the smiles on visitors' faces, it was like it had never been away!

A colourful carnival procession kicked off proceedings at Bramley Shopping Centre just after noon, winding through Town Street to Bramley Park, the main carnival venue.

Hundreds of people braved an early rain shower to line the streets and cheer the participants on. Crowds of up to 4,000 people then flocked to Bramley Park to watch a host of entertainment and enjoy dozens of activities and stalls.

Highlights included some stunning moves from the James Dylan Motorcycle Display Team and a majorettes march.

There was a slight hitchwhen tribute band AbbaArrival cancelled their performance after their van was unable to manoeuvre through the mud to the sound stage.

But in true carnival spirit, the rest of the show went on, and delighted organisers are already planning next year's event.

Terence Knapton, who has spent the past 12 months organising the 2007 party with his small team, admitted he had collapsed with exhaustion at one point but said the hardwork had beenworth it.

"It was absolutely fantastic," he said."There were nearly 1,000 people lining the streets from the shopping centre and along Town Street and police reckon therewere 4,000 people at the carnival at one point."

Plans are already under way for the next Bramley Carnival in 2008.