Deal businesses have banded together to ensure this year’s Christmas Carnival will go ahead.

It will be tonight at 6pm from Deal Memorial Bandstand in The Strand.

The procession follows the carol concert which begins at 5.15pm and is the last remaining festive parade in Kent, organised by Deal Community Carnival Association.

Chief executive John Trickey has thanked businesses and individuals who have made donations towards the £1,000 it costs to run.

A total of £800 has already been raised from generous people in the town, with more sponsors and support still coming in.

The money is used to finance the road closures, traffic signs and insurance.

He said: “We are really thrilled to be doing this and people have been so kind to donate.” Carnival courts from around the South East such as Whitstable, Faversham and Margate will be taking part.

They will be led by the court of Deal featuring queen Kelsi Endean, senior princesses Amelia Lawson and Hannah Brice, junior queen Charlie Cousin, junior princesses Aimee McGarrigle and Adelle Sharp and rosebud Daisy Gillespie.

Father Christmas is also set to make an appearance as well as local dance groups and the famous Christ Church Carnival Bus which has been visiting Deal’s streets since 1998.

Mr Trickey has advised people to dress warmly and bring a torch or lantern. Fancy dress is also encouraged.

The carnival will end at The Landmark Centre in Deal High Street at 7pm.

The 2018 court selection hosted by Mr Trickey for Deal, Walmer and Kingsdown will be on Saturday, February 3 at the Ocean Rooms, in Queen Street, Deal, from noon until 11pm.