A WASHOUT - that was the trouble-torn Redditch Carnival last weekend as heavy rain put the dampers on the family day out.

Carnival float entries and charity donations flopped so badly that organisers were left wondering whether there had been a boycotting of the controversial new town route.

Down were street collections for charities, about £500 was raised, a quarter of last year's takings. Down were the profits for showmen, who said the barely managed to cover their costs. Even carnival queen, 16-year-old Sharon Richmond was disappointed.

"I enjoyed it but it was shame there weren't so many people as last year," she said.

Carnival treasurer Barry Smith added: "It was a very small turn out and a very small collection. I was also disillusioned about the number of floats that turned out."

But carnival chairman Alan Brown remained optimistic. He said: "It's absolutely amazing considering the weather. We did well to attract one in four people along in such heavy rain. The people of Redditch really deserve a pat on the back for supporting the carnival in these conditions."