SPECTATORS and competitors flocked to Maldon's Promenade Park yesterday as a famous event returned after two years.

Maldon Mud Race, which started back in 1973, attracts thousands of people from across the world every year.

The past two events were sadly cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

So people were delighted as it returned on Sunday with a range of entertainment and of course, the iconic mud race.

Comedian Jo Brand started the race and cheered on her daughter Maisi Bourke, who tackled the event with her boyfriend Alfie Richer to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Maldon Mud Race charities.

Read more >>> Famous comedian spotted cheering on daughter at legendary mud race

Jo had taken part in the 2011 mud race with late comedian Sean Lock.

Maisi and Alfie ran alongside nearly 300 other racers who made the 400m mud course in the sunshine.

Aerial Essex captured this incredible video of the race from the sky.

Video credit: Aerial Essex

The event was free for spectators who were entertained with music from the Essex Hoy Shanty Crew, Colin Davies and the Funky Voices choir.

Attendees also enjoyed food and drink from a range of stalls, including the Tiptree Tea Bus.