One of the most familiar and treasured sights that can be found every year is that of the Barrow Carnival.

While yet to return due to lockdown, The Mail has documented year after year of fun scenes from the event over the years which allow us to imagine what it will be like when it returns.

With residents from across the town and further afield turning up every year with outfits prepared months in advance, the carnival is one of the most popular events you will see in the area.

The event has been running in some format for more than a century, although the traditional parade and floats have been absent in recent years.

Despite its growing popularity, the annual treasure did have to take a long hiatus between 1958 and 1971.

Luckily for organisers the 13-years absence the carnival took did not dampen its popularity.

The public pined for its return and crowds flocked to the event throughout the 1970s and 1980s as it became a popular fixture on the summer calendar.

Photographs taken during those fondly-remembered years show dance troupes, charities and societies making their way through the town centre looking resplendent in colourful outfits.

Many individuals and organisations had spent months preparing their costumes and acts ready for the carnival.

Though the elements sometimes threaten the fun – torrential rain caused an early finish in 2004 – the carnival is one of the town’s best-loved events.

This year’s event is a two-day extravaganza, with the traditional procession on the Saturday before a dance gala and live music in Barrow Park.

A family fun day is set to follow on Sunday, and participants will be hoping the sunny weather continues throughout the weekend.

Few other village carnivals or annual events have been able to hold a candle to its popularity, excitement and the acclaim it meets every year. When lockdown can allow such incredible events to resume, it is expected that more people than before will attend.