The sky was the limit for party business Balloonatic at the Sheppey summer carnival.

The family firm from Russell Street was determined to retain its trophy and went on to win the top prize with a balloon-inspired undersea tableau on Saturday.

Manager Sam Gillham, who had working on the float since 7.30am with the team, said: “We won the spirit of carnival award, the chairman's choice and came first in our category last year. This year we again won our category and clinched the overall prize. We were delighted."

Also on lorries were the Eden School of Dance celebrating Grease, 8th Sheppey Scouts marking 70 years of the NHS, Sheppey United FC, Sheppey Sea Cadets band and Rushenden Community House.

Lauren McCall, vice-chairman of the Sheppey Carnival Association, said: "We would have liked more floats but at least two groups were let down at the last minute by their lorry firms. We would love more firms and drivers to volunteer to help next year."

The giant greyhound from Sittingbourne's Central Park Stadium, banger cars from Sittingbourne speedway and the popular Wonder Girls Pom-Pom group skipped this year but the polished Rainham Majorettes, Swale's 4x4 drivers and stunning motor trikes made up the numbers with 16 carnival courts from across Kent.

Sheppey was represented by stand-in queen Faith Chawner, 18, who took over when Kelsey Wheatley pulled out with illness. She was joined by fellow stand-in Darcey Kidd, Melody Jackson and Miss Rosebud Skye Cornelius. Junior Queen Tilly Ash was supported by Scarlett Ray and Keira Collins Kiazim.

There was only one incident when police had to prise a drunk from scaffolding near the clock tower. But Lauren said: "It was a great atmosphere.

"We'd like to thank everyone who took part and would like to encourage more clubs, organisations and businesses to join us next year. It's great fun and a free way to advertise a business."

Organisers were still counting the cash but feared takings were down. Lauren said: "There was a good crowd but people seemed reluctant to donate. It's a shame because every penny is ploughed back into the carnival for next year."

There were stalls in Sheerness Broadway, funfair at Beachfields and free fireworks on the seafront.