Thousands of people have lined the streets of a town to mark the return of the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi.

The religious and cultural festival is one of the most important dates in the calendar for the Sikh community, as well as Hinduism, and marks the beginning of spring.

Vaisakhi parade returns to Gravesend

Gravesend has a proud tradition celebrating its multi-faith community and is home to one of the largest Sikh temples in Europe.

Today's event saw members of the faith joined by schools and local cultural and sporting organisations to celebrate.

Thousands walked the streets as part of a congregation which saw colourful floats, bhangra bands and dancers set off from the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara at around midday.

The route went past the Ravidas Gurdwara in Brandon Street before heading through the town centre. It is due to return to the Gurdwara by around 2.30pm.

The march is being led by the Panj Pyare and flag bearers followed by the holy Sikh scriptures on a special model of the Golden Temple.

Until 6pm there will be a religious festival called Dharmic Mela in the grounds with singing, music, a funfair and charity and business stalls for all to enjoy.

Vaisakhi is an ancient holy festival which originated in India and is celebrated across the globe.

It celebrates the creation of the Khalsa – a collective of committed Sikhs who are leaders and defenders of the Sikh way.

The event was formed to fight oppression and uphold freedom and basic needs such as food, clothing, education and health for all people.

The Khalsa was first created in April 1699 when the 10th Guru tested Sikhs by asking for volunteers to sacrifice themselves.

The first five who stepped forward and proved their devotion were chosen to form the first Khalsa and were known as the Panj Pyare or Five Beloved.

Vaisakhi is now an annual festival and often marked by a colourful procession known as Nagar Kirtan.

It was unable to take place during the pandemic but has returned to the town again this year after a two-year absence.

A celebratory service known as the Gurpurb will also take place tomorrow, also to be held at the Gurdwara.

There will be rolling road closures as the procession passes.