THE quirky traditions of Eynsham Carnival attracted more than 4,000 people to the village for a colourful afternoon out on Saturday.

They watched villagers push each other on carts in the 52nd “shirt” race and a carnival procession with 15 floats.

There were also performances from Morris Men sides, and a display by an American Civil War re-enactment society.

Carnival organising committee member Kim Hall, 32, said: “The carnival is believed to be one of the oldest village carnivals in the country. I moved to Eynsham four years ago and I was immediately roped in to help out.”

Carnival chairman Julie Jordan, 50, said: “Everyone in the village is saying it was the best carnival ever.

“This was my 50th – I have been every year since I was a baby and I have never missed one.”