GALLERY: Party in the Polegrove launches a fun weekend

All along the route from Sidley to the seafront, families lined the streets to take in the spectacle.

Police temporarily blocked some roads to let the parade pass.

Temperatures of up 23.5C (75F) ensured the town's biggest Carnival crowd for years.

The world of television set the theme and dozen of entries set about their task with gusto.

Stand-out entries included the Morgan family in their version of Willy Wonka's boat - complete with Oompa Loompas and bubble machine.

The carnival princesses and visiting queens section was won by the entry from Pebsham Community Association.

Christchurch Methodist scooped the religious group prize with their take on Songs of Praise - complete with detailed church.

Barry Turnwell explained: "This is the seventh year we have been doing it and we love it. About 35 of us take part and it is a real church and family effort. We spent about three days putting it together, but have been planning it since February."

Chantry Community Primary School took on Top of the Pops, complete with children and parents in costumes influenced by the show's golden period of the 1960's and 1970's.

"I usually dress like this of course," joked PTA member Tammy Goldsprink-Saunders. "I was up at 4am this morning helping to put it (the float) together. It's a long process.

"But the kids think it's great and that's what it is all about."

The Glimmer Stars won the majorettes group, with the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway scooping the commercial category with their train.

A full ward of doctors and nurses secured the best in show award along with the club prize for the 3rd Bexhill Scouts.

Their float was based on the TV show Casualty, and saw plenty of blood and bandages, as well as some distinctly masculine nurses.

Group leader Brian Thomas said: "We are very grateful to the scaffolding company who have let us use their lorry, and to the parents and children who have helped with the costumes.

"There was no volunteering for any of us leaders to dress up - I was told to!"

Carnival committee chairman Nim Whitmarsh was delighted with the event.

He said: "Considering the number of new volunteers we have, especially at the Turkey Road end, it has gone very well.

"I have been really impressed with the quality of the floats. We have got entries here from Kent and Worthing way.

"Almost all the events for carnival week have exceeded expectations."

Entertainment continued during the afternoon at the Polegrove, with dancers, bands, a tae-kwon-do demonstration and dog show.

The previous evening saw the Party in the Polegrove, featuring a fun fair and live music.

This year's carnival charities are the MPS Society, Demelza Hospice Care, Hospital Radio Hastings and the Special Olympics.

See pages 20-23 for the Observer's picture coverage. Even more pictures appear on our website at www.bexhillobserver.net