THE New Forest was swamped after being hit by Hurricane Charley – but it failed to dampen the spirits of the villagers.

Brockenhurst Carnival procession went ahead as usual on August 25, 1986, despite the torrential bank holiday downpour.

First place went to the Camberwick Green entry from the Pennington Scout Group, while the village hall playgroup’s royal wedding took second.

“Everyone deserved a prize,” said John Launchbury, one of the organisers.

Taking shelter on a horse-drawn carriage was the carnival queen Philippa Capon, prince Steven Barford and princess Abigail Rae.

ON THIS DAY:

  • A first class stamp cost 18p.
  • Compilation album Now That’s What I Call Music! 7 was the best seller.
  • Boris Gardiner was at number one with I Want to Wake Up With You.
  • Red Storm Rising by Tom Clancy was the New York Times best selling book.
  • People may have been watching Boon on TV.
  • Gamers may have been playing Space Harrier.
  • Top of the box office was The Fly.