Ilminster Carnival Committee gave away almost £7,000 to local good causes during its annual cheque presentation evening, held at the weekend.

Representatives from 16 organisations packed into the Parish Hall, sharing a £6,905 windfall.

The town's first ever Carnival Prince, eight-year-old Harry Samways, presented the cheques, accompanied by carnival princess Jessica Priddle, nine, and attendant Emma Rutter, nine.

Ilminster Ambulance Station was the biggest benefactor of the evening, collecting £4,000 which will be used to equip emergency vehicles with vital signs monitors.