GIANT jellyfish and jolly pirates paraded through the streets as a carnival made a 'fantastic' comeback. 

Eynsham Carnival returned on Saturday despite fears it would have to fold due to a lack of organisers.

Fresh faces on the carnival's committee meant the much-loved village tradition was able to return for its 71st year, entertaining an estimated 4,000-5,000 visitors throughout the day. 

Carnival chairman Harold Jerred said: "We took a big dip - we were practically going to pack up - but we've now got a brilliant committee. 

"The word fantastic keeps coming to mind - it was absolutely super. 

"Depending on people's memories, the carnival can be traced back to 1938 or 1946. We decided to go back to those years and select a couple of events from the 1946 poster - like the tug of war and skittles. They used to bowl back then for a live pig."

The carnival spread across Queen Elizabeth Playing Field and surrounding streets, featuring a float, family activities, craft and food stalls and a funfair. 

Eynsham Carnival Shirt Race also saw boozy competitors battle it out in fancy dress; racing in pairs using non-motorised 'vehicles' such as pushchairs, and making pit stops to down half pints.

Mr Jerred thanked the 15 carnival committee members and about 20 more helpers who volunteered on the day, as well as Annie Green who opened the carnival. 

The Eynsham resident said: "It's a big day in Eynsham. People really seemed to be enjoying themselves."

He said he was also grateful to churches and youth groups as well as Eynsham Rotary Club for their collective carnival efforts.