Hundreds of people flocked to a town centre for the second week running but this time to celebrate the annual Festival of Light.

The event in Dartford lit up the town with lanterns, music and fireworks after an 18-month absence due to lockdown.

Gurvinder Sandher, the artistic director of Cohesion Plus, one of the organisers, said: "We are so pleased to be back celebrating the Dartford Festival of Light after what has been a very tough and trying time for everyone.

"I am proud that despite its time away, the festival was still popular and well attended, proving it to be a well-loved event with loyal supporters who came to show their support despite the cold weather.

"Events like this are so important as they bring everyone together regardless of background, faith, whether you are young or old, if you live in the rural and urban parts of the borough.

"This is the strength of Dartford, standing together as one community in good times and bad, cementing why this event is so important to me.

"I am proud of how it has developed over many years and value every opportunity we have to celebrate all our commonality and the things that we share and value through the medium of the arts."

The festival, which took place on Friday evening(November 26), has been celebrated annually for 11 years until 2020 when the national lockdown was enforced.

It aims to celebrate what binds the communities together, shared common values and championing the diversity of Dartford.

This year saw 11 schools showcase their colourful lanterns which were made in the lead up to the event in workshops run by Same Sky Arts.

There were also performances from Folkin Fusion who brought their signature fusion party blend of African and North Indian percussions, fantasy-themed stilt walkers and Baja Beats who played brass versions of classic Bollywood and pop hits.

The parade started in the High Street and was led by Mayor of Dartford Cllr Rosanna Currans, Dartford council leader Cllr Jeremy Kite and Deputy Lord Lieutenant Kelvin Holford.

It made its way onto Market Street, along Market Place, down the High Street and finally to Central Park where short speeches were made to the crowds.

The evening finished with a dazzling fireworks display.

Cllr Kite added: "It was great to have the Festival of Light back. It is one of the highlights of our year and brings together people from all over Dartford to celebrate and enjoy a truly stunning light display. I am so proud to work with partners like Cohesion Plus."

As in previous years, the festival was organised by Cohesion Plus working in partnership with Dartford council and Kent Equality Cohesion Council.