COMMUNITY spirit was the order of the day at the 93rd Prestwich Carnival in St Mary’s park and around the village.

For the first time at the annual event the carnival royalty paraded in a decorated horse and carriage.

There were food stalls and a special eco-village, where people could give ideas about how to help the environment.

And the most poignant moment of the event was a tribute to people killed in last month’s Manchester Arena terror attack, followed by a minute’s applause and the release of 22 black and yellow balloons — the colours of the Manchester bee symbol. Frank Shatliff, chairman of the carnival committee, said: “It might not seem right to say it, but I think that was the highlight of the carnival.

“I think people are more together after that.

“When we did that tribute there was so much unity, it brought people together.”

Mr Shatliff added he thought the event overall went very well, and that he and his fellow volunteers have received “very positive” feedback from residents. One of the groups visiting was the Manchester Taiwanese Association, who showed off some stunning costumes and enjoyed the event so much they said they will return next year with more members.

Mr Shatliff added: “It’s all about community spirit and people getting involved in what we do.” He said he wants to encourage even more people to volunteer to help or sponsor the event, and is looking to start an ‘invitation’ to donate £1 to the carnival.

“This isn’t an appeal, but we are simply asking people, if they want to, to give £1. There are 30,000 people in Prestwich so if everyone gave a pound it would be a lot of money and it would be unlimited what we do.