THOUSANDS of people took to the streets for the return of the Canvey Carnival.

Forathird year in a row, islanders were gripped by party fever as colourful floats snaked their way through the town before finishing with a fun fair at Labworth Park.

Spectators soaked up the sunshine as entertainers, cheer leaders, dancers and karate groups wowed the crowds with their skills as they weaved their way from Thorney Bay Caravan Park along Long Road, Furtherwick Road, and Western Esplanade to the fair.

The Tardis and viking ships were among some of the most creative floats crowds could enjoy, as participants really got into the spirit of the event.

Oompa Lumpas, Bob the Builder, the Daleks, Roman conquerors and even zombies were among some of the characters parading through the streets as part of the big day.

Click here to see a gallery of pictures http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/local_news/canveycarnival/

Olympic torchbearer Kim Axford was on hand to show off her golden torch to her hometown crowd, while volunteers from the Canvey Carnival Association carried out collections for charities on the island.

Zoe Watson, chairman of the association, said: “It was an absolutely fabulous day. It was really really great to see so many thousands of people out enjoying the event.

“The weather was absolutely amazing, we couldn’t have asked for better, and we’ve had so many positive comments from people who attended, saying what a fun time they had.

Hopefully it will just continue to get bigger and better.”

For more information, visit www.canveycarnival.com