A special ceremony on Saturday saw Ottery’s new carnival royalty crowned and supporters of the event recognised.

Queen Hannah Rigg and princesses Millie Gething and Freya Bailey were officially appointed to take over from Libby Shaw, Georgina Lees and Emerald Wood for the 2017 carnival circuit.

Millie was also presented with a trophy for collecting the most funds. The Ottery St Mary Primary School pupil raised £1,400 for the carnival and Tar Barrels through a sponsored swim.

Steve Pearcy, secretary of the carnival committee, said: “I was honoured to go and watch her and see her swim 100 lengths in an hour - she really worked hard.”

Following the coronation, the winners of a creative baking competition and guy competition were announced.

Michelle Broadhurst’s entry was voted the best guy and will sit atop of the bonfire tomorrow (Saturday).

Judges faced a difficult decision in the children’s fancy-dress competition.

A number of awards were handed out to local businesses for their fundraising contributions.

Mike and Jacqui Down, owners of the Volunteer Inn, won a cup for the highest total raised by a pub.

The Broad Street establishment increased its fundraising from last year from £1,300 to £2,195.

Mike said: “It was one of the best atmospheres we have had in years. This year, the committee had gone back in time and we had more torch-bearers coming through the town.

“We try to raise the bar every year by doing something different. We have provided bars for the committee and donated proceeds back to the carnival.” Sally Gooding, of Sal’s Café, raised £700 for the carnival and was presented with the Daniel Rowland Memorial Shield for the highest total raised by a business.

Sal said: “I love the carnival and Tar Barrels- it’s a family tradition. My parents rolled the barrels, my sisters, my nieces and nephews all rolled the barrels. It’s the sense of community coming together for the whole night. It’s just the way of life.”

See pages 22 and 23 for more pictures from Ottery Carnival.