One of the county’s most anticipated carnival events of the year has a very rich history of fun and celebration.

The Mail: ACTING: Guys and Dolls from 1992ACTING: Guys and Dolls from 1992

The fever for the Dalton Carnival can be felt months before the event takes place and some participants prepare and plan well in advance before taking part.

The Dalton parades brought joy and excitement to the residents of the town throughout the 1980s and the 1990s.

In the year 1989, the carnival queen was Nicola Tomlinson and her ladies in waiting were Tracy Morrison and Lisa Mackereth.

The Mail: SMILES: Katie Moralee, Helen Ramsay Jodie Reeks, Katie Rowan and Corinne Godwin from Sue's School of Dancing in 1992SMILES: Katie Moralee, Helen Ramsay Jodie Reeks, Katie Rowan and Corinne Godwin from Sue's School of Dancing in 1992

Their presence was a great attraction to the local residents and the parade was a tremendous success.

With a high attendance of spectators and good weather, the carnival saw one of its best years take place.

The 1988 parade featured a wide display of participants including a marching band, floats, display vehicles, local groups, and dancers.

The Mail: CROWNED: Dalton Carnival 1989 Queen Nicola Tomlinson with ladies in waiting Tracy Morrison and Lisa MackerethCROWNED: Dalton Carnival 1989 Queen Nicola Tomlinson with ladies in waiting Tracy Morrison and Lisa Mackereth

The parade had drawn a crowd so big it could hardly be contained by the pavements at the side of the roads.

In 1990, the Welfare State’s Barracuda dancers joined the parade and received praise for their fun and energetic performances.

In 1992, the carnival had a special visit from the young clown dancers from Sue's School of Dancing.

The Mail: LAUGHING: Helen Winter from Welfare State's Barracuda dancers in 1990LAUGHING: Helen Winter from Welfare State's Barracuda dancers in 1990

In that same year, the crowd was also treated to a showing of Guys and Dolls by a troupe of dancers.

The dancers impressed the crowd and helped build the exciting and action-packed atmosphere that the parade’s shows are known for.

The Dalton Carnival parade starts on Prince Street, usually with dance troupes and floats winding their way through the town.

It leads to Dowdales School, where there are galas and dancing competitions that are hosted on the field. There is also entertainment and family fun at the gala, which is open from 10am onwards.

The shows include dancers, puppets, fancy dress and demonstrations of tricks and talents by magicians and local performers.

The Mail: MARCHING: Dalton Carnival in 1988MARCHING: Dalton Carnival in 1988