PEOPLE danced in the streets of Canvey on Saturday as the town held its first carnival in eleven years.

Hundreds of spectators gathered along the route of the parade which was part of a summer fun day organised to bring the community together.

Despite overcast conditions, the crowds packed the streets for the procession, which started at Thorney Bay Caravan Park, and made its way to Craven Avenue, Long Road, Furtherwick Road and then along the seafront before returning to the park where the fun continued into the evening.

Zoe Watson, chairman of the Canvey Carnival Organising Association, said: “It was a brilliant day overall, with everyone having a really good time. We have started counting up all the proceeds collected from the crowds and we raised £3,170 for local charities.”

There were 11 big floats, and more than 20 groups walked the parade.