Colourful carnival fun on

A GIANT swan, pink octopus and colourful sea creatures were among the stars of the show as a flamboyant parade marked the return of the Whitley Bay Carnival.

Hundreds of families turned out for the annual event, which enjoyed the best of Saturday’s weather as it brought the streets of the seaside town to life.

Starting off at Whitley Bay Metro station at 11am, the procession – which included local schoolchildren showing off their work – made its way along Station Road and Park View, down to the Spanish City Plaza where more crowds waited to greet the spectacle.

The traditional carnival, which had been revived in 2014, was the result of months of planning by organisers, community groups and volunteers.

And the sun came out for the parade – a carnival first – as costumed performers and an array of creatures, including monkeys to tie in with its ‘wild’ theme, made its way through the town centre.

Among the children taking part were pupils from the local Rockcliffe First School and Langley First School, who were applauded as they passed the crowds.

Live music ranged from brass bands to Backyard Rhythm Orchestra while choirs, dancing, circus acts and stilt walkers all added to the attractions of the event which had a real community atmosphere.