The organisers of a carnival in east Suffolk have praised the enthusiasm and imagination of those who entered into the Mardis Gras spirt to make the event “one of the best” in its 72 year history.

With thousands of spectators, hundreds of participants and high hopes for a bumper charity windfall, this year’s Aldeburgh Carnival is said to have surpassed expectations.

“I think we can say with some confidence that it was one of the best,” said Keith Batt, publicity officer for the Aldeburgh Carnival Committee.

“We’ve had lots of positive feedback from members of the public, a good turn out across the age groups and lots of smiling children running about enjoying themselves.”

Around 10,000 people are believed to have attended over the three days, which culminated on Monday in a colourful procession through the town, followed by an evening lantern parade and fireworks display.

Mr Batt has praised the parade-goers for their “enthusiasm and imagination”, which helped create the Mardis Gras atmosphere that this year’s carnival was themed around.

“They really entered into the spirit,” he said.

Last year’s event raised more than £5,000 for local worthy causes, and this year’s is hoped to top that total.

“It’s encouraging so far,” said Mr Batt. “I think we can fairly safely say that we should be as good as last year’s and hopefully a little better.”

Although the dust has barely settled after this year’s frivolity, the committee will soon begin planning the next event – with thoughts already emerging on how to celebrate the 75th anniversary in 2017.

Spitfire flyovers, Apache helicopter demonstrations and other military aerial displays are some of the unconfirmed suggestions in the pipeline.

“At this stage we’re doing some forward planning for an extra special 75th edition,” said Mr Batt.

Mr Batt has expressed the committee’s thanks to all who supported the event and offered particular to the group’s “dynamo” Judy Gowen who has been involved in the past 37 carnivals.

“What Judy doesn’t know about carnivals is not worth knowing,” he said.