THE threat of rain failed to dampen the spirits of thousands of people across Oxfordshire who made the most of the May Bank Holiday.

Dozens of events were held across the county and, despite a few splashes of rain in the morning, the weather cleared up by lunchtime for holidaymakers to welcome in the spring.

In Cowley Road, Oxford, it was a celebration of all things Alice in Wonderland as a Mad Hatter's Tea Party was held in Dawson Street.

Hundreds of people enjoyed tea, served by the Mad Hatter and his friends, tried out lobster-tossing, then watched demonstrations of tango and listened to acoustic music and stories.

Reveller and Oxford University student Danni Paffard, who dressed as Tweedle Dee, said: "It's been really nice, we have had a great story about buying ethical food and standing up for the small guys, and there is lots of tea, lots of kids playing games, and more balloons than you would imagine possible.

"It is a nice community event and the atmosphere and the thought behind it is really genuine. It would be good to get more people involved for the next one."

Several hundred people turned out for the annual Chalgrove Festival, which was launched by a walking procession through the streets of the village.

Six children's groups took part in the parade, with Chalgrove Primary School's colourful effort being chosen as the best.

Teacher, parent and school association member Wendy Creber said: "It's brilliant and the weather has held off as well which has made it so much easier.

"All the children made different animals for the maypole dancing and they have all had a great time.

"This is the third time in a row we have got first prize in the parade but everyone has made a fantastic effort, it has all been really enjoyable."

Festival committee member David Turner said: "It really is quite spectacular. It rained in the morning so we were all a bit worried but it cleared up and it's been a really nice afternoon."

As well as the parade, there were classic cars and motorcycles to see, majorettes, marching bands, a Caribbean steel band, and a model aircraft display.

Carterton staged its largest annual event, the May Day Fair, with thousands of people turning out to raise money for Save the Children, with a dog show, six-a-side football and vintage cars and bikes among the attractions.

Margaret Sangwell, who lives in the village, entered two dogs in the show.

She said: "It has been lovely and it's really good fun for the youngsters.

"It's a good way for all the children to get together with all their friends and having fun - and the dog show is more fun than competitive too."

Save the Children branch vice-chairman Graham Evans said the charity hoped to pocket more than £5,000. He said: "We are having a brilliant day. The number of attractions is amazing and it is a major family event.

"Because it is for Save the Children we make sure there is a lot going on for them, and it is the biggest event in Carterton."

In Didcot, the town's guides were holding a May Day event in a bid to secure funds for a 99-year lease on their base.

Activities included plate-smashing, candy floss making, a chocolate fountain, and a May Day Queen parade.

Alison Waters, who lives in Green Road, was at the event with her sister, Paula, eight-year-old niece Litigate and nephew Dion, eight months old.

She said: "My niece had a go at the plate smashing, she didn't really smash a lot but she enjoyed it.

"There are lots of people here and now the sun has come out more people seem to be turning up. It's a nice family day out."