Rochester has been resounding to whoops, drums, bells and accordians as Morris dancers descended for the 33rd annual Sweeps festival.

The festival, which started on Saturday and finishes with a parade at 2.45pm on Monday features Morris dancers and musicians from as far away as France and Canada.

Throughout the weekend crowds were able to enjoy a fun fair, art and a selection of thirst-slaking ales. Live music was performed from 11am to 5pm on each day at the City Wall stage and in the Castle gardens.

The latter was the focal point for the festival with a record fair, an eclectic mix of folk-art stalls -including a psychic fair - a traditional fun fair and many catering stalls.

Artists who performed included Tim Edey, Terry Pearson, The Singing Loins, Luke Jackson and No Worries. The name Sweeps comes from 19-century sweeps celebrating their traditional holiday through song and dance.

Monday's parade starts from the Star Hill end of the High Street, processing the length of the High Street before entering the Castle Grounds.
See Monday's Medway Messenger for more pictures.