Events kicked off with the judging of the floats and the Carnival Queen's Parade through the town which pulled the crowds back to Queens Park for a fun packed afternoon. And there really was something for everyone! Amazing motor cycle stunts and traditional Punch and Judy performed alongside belly dancers, martial arts and craft stalls. Youngsters of all ages learnt to walk a tight rope and other circus skills whilst little ones made dragonflies, had their faces painted and rode on the donkeys.

Whilst our main aim is to provide fun and entertainment for the local community, each year we also hope to raise substantial sums for our chosen charities. With so much 'doom and gloom' we decided our 2009 event would focus on young people's activities and achievements and our parade theme of 'Music and Dance' complemented perfectly this year's designated charity, Pudsey based Northern Star Group. The Group offers training in public performance to young people and after demonstrating its unique blend of 'music-on-the-move' youngsters had a chance to try their hand on some of the instruments.

Once again, Pudsey Civic Society's marquee provided very welcome cover for smaller community-based organisations. Many thanks also to Local Councilors, to Marks & Spencer, Asda and Pudsey centre businesses who have all came up trumps to support the event with cash donations and prizes for the draw, and to the local firms that provided the vehicles and drivers necessary for the stage and parade floats. All this support is invaluable, as the Carnival could not be held without it.

Combining music and the arts in a very unique way, Pudsey-based Northern Star offers children and young people from the age of 7 years upwards and into adulthood, the chance to learn and play a range of musical instruments or dance techniques. With a lot of hard work and a huge amount of fun they get the opportunity to perform around the UK and Europe as part of one of the best European youth bands this Century.

Northern Star Group is a registered youth charity.

A big thank you to everyone who donated prizes to the 2009 Prize Draw.