Thousands of people lined the streets as Colchester enjoyed a day at the movies.

Colchester Carnival rolled into town on Saturday with around 60 colourful floats manned by schools, performing arts groups, community groups, musicians and dancers each based on the theme of the Magic of the Movies.

The procession began at Abbey Field with up to 11,000 people cheering as the floats passed before snaking their way to Castle Park where there was fun for all the family.

John Godfrey, chairman of Colchester Carnival which is organised by Colchester Round Table and Colchester Ladies Circle, hailed the party atmosphere on the day.

“We had another 7,000 people in the park enjoying the activities and entertainment on offer,” he said. “We were worried that people wouldn’t turn up after a heavy downpour in the morning but thankfully that wasn’t the case.

“All the community groups got together and really embraced the Magic of the Movies theme - we had an amazing Pirates of the Caribbean float which was absolutely spectacular.

“The theme really was open to interpretation and people really embraced it.” As well as the procession, Castle Park was a hive of activity with a Tent of World Dreams featuring performances such as belly dancing, Bollywood dancing and a jazz workshop, while there was a children’s area with karting, bouncy castles and fairground rides and more than 70 trade stalls.

Mr Godfrey added: “We’re not sure how much was raised yet but early indications are that it is up on last year.

“We are hoping to raise around £7,000 with the majority going back into the borough of Colchester.

“Colchester Round Table and Colchester Ladies Circle would like to thank the people of Colchester for their support.”

Any community groups in Colchester wanting to apply for funding from the carnival should visit www.colchestercarnival.com/carnival-grants/ for information on the application process.