SIR Steve Redgrave came face to face with... Sir Steve Redgrave at this year's Marlow Bottom Rose Carnival.

The bizarre incident occurred as the town's own celebrity was judging the fancy dress competition.

Five-year-old Andrew Sharpe was in rowing kit when he met his hero Sir Steve himself.

The Olympic oarsman had earlier opened the carnival.

One of the organisers of the carnival, Mike Williams, said: "It was a case of Sir Steve Redgrave meet Sir Steve Redgrave."

Mr Williams said the day went well and there was lots for people to do, including the crowning of the Rose Queen by Sir Steve himself.

Jim Allpass, publicity officer for the carnival, said: "Having Sir Steve Redgrave at the event drew more people even from outside the Marlow Bottom area."

A record sum of £5,000 was raised, which will be used to maintain Marlow Bottom playground and pay for new equipment. Attendance also hit an all-time high as well.

Mr Allpass said: "It is difficult to say exactly but it might have been a couple of thousand."

The success of this year is in sharp contrast to three years ago when the annual carnival was facing closure.

A team from The Squirrel pub, Booker, won the fiercely fought tug-of-war competition and back by popular demand from last year was the Caribbean Sunrise Steel Band.

Hannah Stoddart, seven, was crowned as the Rose Queen. Her attendant was eight-year-old Stephanie Bignall.

Beth Verleys and Sani Knowles were winners in the fancy dress competition.

Mr Allpass said: "Towards the end of the event there was even a low speed car chase with Nigel the clown's magic bus being chased by a police car."