Warm dry weather, plenty of well-dressed furry friends and lots of happy children helped make the Teddy Bears’ Picnic a big success on Saturday.

The event on Walmer Green is traditionally the first one in the week-long Deal Regatta programme and the fun continued with the Party on the Green followed by a firework display.

Deal, Walmer and Kingsdown Regatta Association chairman John Trickey said: “I enjoyed every minute it and it really was a total delight.

“We have more than 80 entries to our teddy bear court selection and the day was a great start to the week. It was a well attended Saturday afternoon and I was impressed by the fireworks.”

Deal Rosebud Queen Amelia Shepherd opened the picnic and the event was hosted by Deal Junior Regatta Court’s Phoebe Clifford, Tiffany Lawrence and Georgia Brown.

Mr Trickey said: “On arrival the children were given a treasure trove sheet and visited different gazebos for their free gifts, which included free fairground rides, sweets and drinks.

“When they sat on the grass enjoying their picnics they enjoyed the antics of the giant bears Fred and Teddy, who are our regular guests at the annual event and are always a good laugh.

“There were lots of smiling happy faces as the children went home much later.

“A big thank you goes to Walmer Parish Council, Forrests Amusements and Chapmans Landscape Gardeners for sponsoring the event, as well as thanks to DJ Gareth Hopkins and Invicta Sounds.”

On Saturday afternoon there was also a chance to see the Teddy Bears’ Picnic from a different angle, as Heli-Charter was offering helicopter rides from Walmer seafront. There is also an opportunity to take to the skies again on Thursday night.

Don't forget. This year's baby show takes place on Wednesday at the Welfare Club, Cowdray Square, Deal instead of the Landmark Centre. Doors open 1.45pm. Entry £1 for adults.