A riot of colourful floats and people in fancy dress brought crowds onto the seafront for the extravaganza that was Deal Carnival.

The threat of rain dispersed as looming dark clouds blew over the procession allowing a steady stream of decorated floats, marching bands, majorettes, and motorcycles to wow the crowds.

Chairman of the Deal, Walmer and Kingsdown Carnival and Regatta Association John Trickey dubbed this year’s festivities as his "best ever."

"I’m so pleased with it. I think in all the years I’ve done it, this was my best ever.

"There was a lot of variety with different floats and walking entries and a great crowd.

"One person stopped us and said he has come more than 170 miles to watch the carnival."

Mr Trickey praised the work of the Deal Regatta Court, who still have a number of functions to perform during the carnival season and the work of Kent Police, Deal Town Council and the carnival committee, which is made up of volunteers.

See this week's East Kent Mercury for full reports, all the results and four pages of pictures from Deal Carnival.