A giant inflatable jumbo jet, stilt walkers and scantily clad samba dancers were among the attractions at this year's Cowley Road Carnival.

Wet weather could not dampen the spirits of the 30,000 people who travelled to East Oxford to take in the sights on Saturday.

Festival organiser Ian Nolan said a masquerade theme and extra stalls had helped the carnival surpass all others over the event's history.

He added: "Last year was brilliant. It was a really good event, but this year, there was much more going on.

"It was the best one yet."

The carnival got off to a limp start as rain put out barbecues and forced spectators to take cover in shop fronts.

But as soon as the procession began at noon, the skies cleared and by early afternoon, the sun was peeking through the clouds.

Daniel Maddox, 22, from East Avenue, who dressed up in a full chicken suit for the carnival, said: "I just love the massive silliness of the day.

"The weather was a bit of a shame, but nobody seemed to care that much."

His friend Jack Lowde, 23, from Kenilworth Avenue, said: "It was really good watching the procession. It was a great celebration of the diversity of Cowley Road."

The procession included dancers from Sol Samba, steel drums and a selection of bopping skeletons.

Street performers, including poets, actors and comedians, also entertained the crowds, while the road's many restaurants set up stalls to sell a range of foods from around the globe.

As the day wore on, five stages saw musicians from across the city perform for the thousands of spectators.

James Terry, 45, from Campbell Road, Cowley, said: "It was fantastic. A bit wet, but we did not want to let a bit of rain put us off."

Pcso Emma Fitzsimmonds, from Cowley, said: "I am really chuffed that no-one was put off by the rain. I was just gutted I was working."

Mr Nolan added: "It was absolutely wicked. People were in such good spirits considering it was a little bit wet.

"There was a relaxed atmosphere - it was what carnivals are all about.

"I thought the procession was brilliant. The carnival is all about celebrating diversity.

"It is a great way for everybody from Oxfordshire to share something."