THOUSANDS attended the carnival in town on its much-awaited return.

The Maldon Carnival continued the tradition which began in 1895 at the weekend as hundreds took part in the parade through the town.

The High Street was filled with spectators watching the energetic parade pass through.

Charity donations were collected throughout the event and the total amount raised is yet to be announced.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Essex Cosplayers at the carnival. Photo: Daniel Reed Photography @captainceramics

Pictures show the public watching and clapping along as the parade made its way along Fambridge Road and through the High Street.

Essex Caledonian Pipe Band filled the streets with the sound of the pipes as they marched through.

There were majorettes, dancers, singers, emergency services, businesses, cosplayers and more who took part.

With Braintree Carnival being cancelled this year, Braintree’s royal court joined in at the Maldon parade.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Joanna May Stage School at the carnival. Photo: Daniel Reed Photography @captainceramics

The carnival is completely run by volunteers, who have spent the year preparing for the day.

The organisers hope to continue the Maldon Carnival and plan to bring it back next year which an event bigger and better parade.

Louise Pringle, a volunteer for the carnival in charge of PR said: “I think it was a great success and we have had so many positive comments.

“In our eyes it was a success, a lot of people have said it was one of the best carnivals we’ve done.

“We have already had lots of people signing up to take part next year.

READ MORE>>> 'No laughing matter' - unacceptable 'upskirting' incident at town carnival

“The amounts donated to charity were overwhelming, the money is still being counted but people were so generous donating five pounds, ten pounds and even twenties.

“A lot of carnivals are in decline, but we hope to continue bringing the carnival back for as long as we can.

“Next year we want to have the funfair back and a field event for majorettes and everyone to do performances.”

The volunteers have thanked everyone who came to watch the carnival and everyone who got involved in the event.