A riot of colour filled the air when members of the borough’s Indian community celebrated the arrival of spring.

Over 100 people were invited to the WI Hall in Willesborough to mark the Holi festival on Saturday, where coloured powders and water were thrown over those taking part.

The event was hosted by the group Indians in Ashford, set up by architect Shipra Arora.

Mrs Arora established the group to provide a space where fellow Indians can share their culture with each other - including her husband Ankur and daughter Anya, as well as others of the younger generation.

Among those present was Kentish Express reporter Tim Collins, who was invited to join in the festivities.

He said: “I’ve never experienced anything quite like this before, and the community made me feel so welcome. The mood was one of pure mischief, with strangers and friends, young and old, all joining in with the throwing of the colours.

“As well as the fun and games mouth watering Indian food was served, including a wonderfully spicy chilli pickle rustled up by Shipra.

“And I was particularly grateful to some new friends who taught me the basics of Indian styles of dancing.”

For a picture special from the event, see Thursday's Kentish Express.