The first carnival of the season certainly did not disappoint the hundreds of residents and visitors who lined the village streets.

May Queen Secretary Barbara Ramwell, said: "We would like to thank everyone who came to watch, all those who took part and all the shops and residents who decorated their houses and made scarecrows. A lot of people put in a lot of hard work and we do appreciate it."

A visit from a selection of Star Wars characters proved particularly popular with sci-fi fans young and old with Darth Vader flanked by Stormtroopers and Imperial Officers an impressive sight walking through the centre of the village.

The procession saw some wonderful floats as the village organisations all turned out in force to support the event with some fabulous costumes.

Hayfield Sheepdog Trials even recreated Noahs Ark for their float complete with real donkeys.

One lorry was transformed into a Yellow Submarine by The Lantern Pike while Hayfield Playgroup were All At Sea on another. The Royal took inspiration from the Pirates of the Caribbean for theirs.

Local parish, district and county councillors along with High Peak Mayor Robin Baldry also joined the parade.

The village children all played their part in the royal procession with both the new and retiring royalty taking on roles such as Beefeaters, flower girls, petal throwers and crown bearers.

The ever popular Billerettes were joined by the Northenden Pipe Band, Boys Brigade Band, Thornsett Band and New Mills Band.

After the parade, festivities continued in the May Queen Field with the crowning of Annie Hallam, the 2009 May Queen.

Among the attractions, including a fun fair, were Nordmanni, Viking and Saxon Living History Group who recreated a Viking trading settlement and demonstrated ancient crafts.