Askam and Ireleth Carnival is a long-established and well-loved event, which usually includes a parade through the streets of Askam followed by a gala on Duddon Sports Field, featuring dancing by local dance troupes as well as other entertainment and market stalls.

In 2016 more than 200 pictures of village parades from the Edwardian era onwards were shown at Thursday’s meeting of the Askam and Ireleth Local History Group by local historian Bill Myers.

SPOOKY: Ghostly collectors at Askam and Ireleth Carnival in 1994

SPOOKY: Ghostly collectors at Askam and Ireleth Carnival in 1994

Early versions of the carnival included Askam Brass Band holding a field day and sports in Mr Greenop’s Field on Duke Street in 1906, which had many of the elements of a carnival day. 

The same year saw a parade up Ireleth Hill to St Peter’s Church for a Sunday School flower service.

The early days of Askam community events seem to have revolved around the selection of a Rose Queen.

The 1994 carnival was a chilly event.

CROWNED: 1994 Carnival Queen Eleanor Clark

CROWNED: 1994 Carnival Queen Eleanor Clark

Under a headline ‘Fantastic plastic at Askam Carnival’, The Mail reported that toes were tapping – but more to keep warm than to keep in time to the music.

And the fashion accessory of the day was the see-through plastic mac to protect dancers from the rain and cold.

But high winds, the threat of showers and a distinct nip in the air did not dampen the spirits of the Askam and Ireleth Carnival-goers.

Children from the local dancing schools were decked out in their finery.

PARTY: Askam Ladies RL team at the carnival in 1994

PARTY: Askam Ladies RL team at the carnival in 1994

There were mini-Elvises, characters from the tales of Beatrix Potter and scenes more in keeping with Mexican fiestas.

Carnival Queen Eleanor Clark, 15, and ladies-in-waiting Rachel Davies and Gemma Wardle, both 13, got up at the crack of dawn for the traditional decorating of their houses and to make sandwiches for the parade.

Eleanor said: “We’re freezing but looking forward to the fun.”

PARADE: The parade through the streets of Askam in 1994

PARADE: The parade through the streets of Askam in 1994

Askam under-fives were well-prepared for the weather, dressed in furry costumes as characters from the Jungle Book.

The day was well-attended and was a tremendous success.