THE sound of traditional sea songs filled the Harwich air at the best Harwich International Sea Shanty Festival yet.

Now in its ninth year, the town was overtaken by a host of performers from at home and aboard, who sang and recited poetry at a variety of venues.

There was also street theatre, roaming pirates and the King’s German Artillery, who demonstrated musket drill and canon firing at the Redoubt Fort.

Pam Fitzgerald, festival organiser, was overwhelmed with the public’s response.

She said: “The whole weekend was brilliant and I can barely describe how delighted we are.

“It has always been popular, but this year it has really taken off and I do not think the town has ever been busier with all the hotels, pubs and restaurants full.

“The event went viral on Twitter as well with so many responses and people saying howmuch they enjoyed it.

“My highlight was a Polish band called Brassy who performed an intimate concert, and everyone in the audience ended up in tears.

“The overseas groups are a big hit and do add something different.

“Next year will be our tenth anniversary and, hopefully, we can make it even bigger and better.”