Families were shocked to see what appeared to be stewards involved in a heated exchange at Sittingbourne Carnival today.

Marshals at the annual family event reportedly hurled abuse and even punches at each other as the procession came to a close.

One startled mum, Amy Gardner, said it was a disgusting display in front of hordes of children.

The 35-year-old PA, from Sittingbourne, said the parade was coming to a close when tempers frayed.

The former carnival princess, who was with nine-year-old daughter Molly, said: "I couldn't believe what we were seeing.

"There appeared to be an issue with allowing a car through, and then a marshal got out and started rowing with another one.

"The language was absolutely disgraceful in front of young children.

"Someone shouted for someone to call the police, and I understand punches were thrown, though I couldn't see because I was on the opposite side of the street.

"I wasn't impressed."

The carnival is an annual tradition which sees families throng the streets.

Another spectator posted on the Facebook page 'The gossip board of Sittingbourne' that one of the stewards went for another and had to be pulled away.

Emily Middleton posted: "The first time I've been to Sittingbourne Carnival in years and I'm disgusted with what I saw.

"It's not what you expect at a family carnival."

Pam Griggs, chairman of Sittingbourne Carnival Association, said she understood something had happened between marshals at the event but the association was not directly involved with it.

"The marshals come in to help with the road closures and are not organised by us," she said.

"We have a regular crew of carnival marshals who attend most carnivals around Kent.

"Two other groups of marshals came in to assist and the argument was between them.

"We certainly will not ask for help again from those few people involved in this."

Road closures were in place from 1pm to 3.30pm to allow the procession to pass through High Street, Milton; Crown Road, Chalkwell Road, London Road, West Street and High Street before eventually dispersing in East Street.

The roads reopened as the parade passed through each section.