Thousands of people got into the carnival spirit on Friday when the Medway Mile returned to Rochester.

With just days to go until the 2016 Olympics, this year’s event had a Rio theme - with a Brazilian drumming band and a Zumba warm up to get everyone in the mood.

The Mile had to be cancelled last July because of heavy rain, but the weather could not have been more different this time.

The Castle Gardens were bathed in sunlight when the activities started at 5pm. Many families got there early to enjoy a picnic and try out the different Olympic sports on offer.

The sun was just dipping below the Castle as families gathered at the starting line for the main race at 8pm.

Before this there had been a children’s race, a mascot race won by Olly the Owl from the Wisdom Hospice and a competitive race.

For the Mile itself, people of all ages ran, jogged or walked through historic Rochester – from babies in pushchairs to pensioners.

The route started from Boley Hill, went up St Margaret’s Street, past The Vines park, back along the High Street and in to the Castle Gardens for the finish.

Staff from Dame Sybil Thorndike Medical Centre in Rochester were among those who took part in the event.

Doctors, nurses and clerical staff, together with members of their Patient Participation Group and patients completed the course,

Doctors said they encouraged patients to become actively involved in physical activity for the improvement of their own health.

Veteran Olympian Paul Nihill also took part.

The 76-year-old retired race walker, who represented Britain in four successive Games, was still recovering after spending two months in hospital.

Mr Nihill has been battling an infection which affected his balance and caused him to suffer from delirium and anxiety.

He spent eight weeks at Medway Maritime and was discharged only a few weeks ago.

But as his daughter Clare Denness wheeled him out of the ward, she wanted to set him a challenge to help him get back on his feet and told him she had already registered him for the Medway Mile.

Mr Nihill, who lives in Rochester, had been out walking every other day – even in the soaring heat – accompanied by his daughter.

He had gradually built up from a short stroll around the block, to walking for 25 minutes.

The evening ended with Carnival-style street entertainment and a fireworks display.

Organisers Medway Sport received lots of messages saying what a great time people had.

One was from @Sara_Jayne_18 who tweeted: “Thank-you @medwaysport for the best Medway Mile yet last night. Great variety of activities. Loved the Rio style entertainment & fireworks!”

Trudi Chronnell tweeted: “Thankyou @MedwaySport for a wonderful event #medwaymile. A lot of fun was had.”