Deal Carnival will be attracting hundreds of people to the town tonight (Thursday) when the colourful procession packed with floats, music and colour takes to the streets.

The parade is the highlight of Deal Regatta Week and starts at 7pm from opposite the Downs Sailing Club, The Strand, Walmer.

Regatta chairman John Trickey promises it will be the best in the South East this summer.

He said: "I hope you, your family, friends and visitors will get as much pleasure from Regatta Week as we will on the committee."

Regatta Week opened at the weekend with a Teddy Bear Picnic, the Deal Tri races, a raft race and lorry pull. The annual baby show was staged yesterday, as well as the Party on the Prom.

See this week's Mercury out today (80p) for full coverage so far on pages 12 to 15.

* Programmes are still on sale in the town for £1 or see the East Kent Mercury for full details.