THE Basildon and Pitsea carnival and festival was a day of colourful costumes, huge smiles and the busiest turnout in years according to the chairman of the event.

It took place on Saturday and started with a parade around the streets, starting at De La Salle School in Ghyllgrove and culminating in a festival at Northlands Park in Basildon.

A bouncy castle and other inflatables were part of the attraction as well as traditional fairground games and rides, drummers, majorettes, live music, ponies and more.

Stuart Terson, chairman of the Basildon and Pitsea Carnival said: "The weather was absolutely fantastic, the festival ground was the busiest I’ve seen for many years.

"All the food and drink vendors were very happy and have already booked to come again next year.

"In the parade it was great to see new entries join, like Basildon Heritage, Basildon Twinning Association, Everyone Active and also the Chinese dragon and drummers.

"I would like to thank everybody that took part and everyone that came out and supported.

"We are looking forward to next year and building on what we achieved this year."

Adding a regal touch to the proceedings was the Crown Court for Basildon and Pitsea, who worked hard at what was their first event following the crowning ceremony last week.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Basildon, Cllr Luke Mackenzie, who joined the parade on a horse course carriage.