Fabulous floats, fancy dress, dancing troupes and marching bands reminded us on Thursday why Deal carnival is probably the best in Kent.

The town came out in force to watch the procession, and with a great and colourful selection of entrants, they were not disappointed.

Starting off at The Strand in Walmer, those taking part queued up along The Beach, getting into the party atmosphere.

The winners of the Mercury's Spirit of the Carnival award was the boat-themed float promoting the Sergeants' Mess Pantomime, which this year is called Pirates of the Curried Bean.

Brian Short, pantomime writer and producer said: "It took us three days to build the boat."

Last year they entered with a corps of drums, but this year it was a full band.

Entrants came from far and wide to take part in what is deemed by them as the best carnival around.

Debbie Mash, manager of The Wonder Girls, brought her troupe of 70 children and adults all the way from Bognor Regis.

"We've done 14 carnivals so far and we won't be stopping til Christmas," she said.

Carol Jenkins from CJ's Dance and Fitness said: "This will be our third time at Deal Carnival.

"We like Deal because it's such a good atmosphere. The kids love doing it and the crowds are so responsive," she said.

For full carnival coverage and amazing pictures by Mercury photographer Tony Flashman, see the Mercury on Thursday.