Deal sure knows how to party - and with bands like Coco and Elliott Shore & Red Label in full swing, last night’s Party on the Prom was the place to be.

Despite the grey skies, families and friends set up camp on the beach for the Bank Buoy Scramble, fishing boat race and the rescue demonstration by the RNLI and HM Coastguard before the live music began.

The surge in activity led to a thriving seafront, and pubs like the newly opened Cabin Bar, and Burger Brothers, part of the former Clarendon Hotel, and the Bohemian were packed.

Organiser John Trickey, chairman of Deal Walmer and Kingsdown Regatta Association, said: “It’s was brilliant

“Even the bit of rain that we had didn’t put anyone off.

“In 15 years of doing party on the prom I’ve never seen crowds like that. It was absolutely phenomenal.

“Fat Boy Slim on Brighton beach is nothing on this! There were thousands there.”

This year organisers, including sponsors Mark 1 Music, Cloke Scaffolding and Sparks Power built the stage outside Pier Amusements, it offered a better flow of movement along Beach Street and allowed more people to get a better view of the stage.

Mr Trickey added: “It projected down the seafront. When I was on the stage you could see right down and the sound seemed a lot better. It was far superior that way.”

As ever the promise of fireworks attracted the people of all ages, and when the rain started falling, the crowds remained loyal.

Thanks to the sponsorship of the Woolls family, who pay for the display every year, a colourful array of pinks, greens and yellows lit up the sky as families and revellers watched in awe.

“The whole night was amazing, the fireworks were unbelievable.

• Mr Trickey has thanked all of last night’s sponsors: The Woolls family, Deal Beach Parlours, Sea View Cafe, the Coast Bar, Mark 1 Music, Hole in the Roof, Video Stars, Sparks Power Cloke Scaffolding and the bands too, who all performed for free.

Don't forget Deal carnival begins tonight at 7pm from the Strand at Walmer.

From 2.30pm the carnival cascade is on Walmer Green with a display of classic cars, motorcycles and other stalls. Head down there earky to get a good spot.