Families have magical time at popular Houston carnival

A fancy dress competition at the church, in Kirk Road, saw many dressed as their favourite characters, with Mickey and Minnie Mouse leading the fun on Saturday.

The Anchor Boys went along as 101 Dalmatians, complete with Cruella de Vil, while the big kids at Houston and Killellan Kirk Men’s Shed dressed up as Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

It was followed by a parade led by 1st Houston Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band to the West Halls, where there were a variety of activities, stalls and sideshows on offer.

Youngsters could enjoy a bungee run, pirate run, beat-the-goalie, giant slide and bouncy castle.

There was also a vintage bus and fire engine for everyone to admire, and the sunny weather meant the ice cream van proved popular with families.

Reverend Gary Noonan, minister of Houston and Killellan Kirk, said the day was a huge success.

He told The Gazette: "It was great to have our Kirk Carnival back after four years – and wonderful to see so many people, young and old, enjoying themselves.

"We were blessed with glorious sunshine and lots of fun, laughter and smiling faces as the whole community came together to have a great time.

"I'd like to thank all the local businesses who advertised in our carnival programme and generously donated prizes, as well as all those who volunteered their time and energy to help make sure things ran like clockwork.

"The event itself raised around £10,000 which is a fantastic amount, so a huge thank you to everyone for all your support, which we really appreciate.

"Every penny raised will help to fund the outreach work of our church, including a range of events and activities that are open to every member of our community."