FANTASTIC costumes and floats were on display as the Harwich Guy Carnival took place at the weekend.

The procession took place on Saturday starting at the top of Ainger Road at 6.30pm and continuing along Main Road where there was a short break at Harwich and Parkeston Football Club

It continued through the High Street before finishing in West Street where the prize winners were announced.

A spokesman for the carnival said: “On behalf of The Rotary Club of Harwich and Dovercourt, thank you to all those who turned out to watch and take part in the Harwich Guy Carnival

“The effort put in on the costumes and floats was outstanding from the man-powered contraptions through to the larger floats, and as for the new big heads [they] wowed as well.”

The Harwich Guy Carnival was organised by the Harwich and Dovercourt Rotary Club and its intention is to poke fun at topical issues in a tradition known as guying.

The carnival is believed to have been started by the Royal Naval Shipyard apprentices in 1854 in conjunction with remembering Guy Fawkes.

Before the procession, the guy carnival bucket and big head shop was open for the last time between 10.30am and 1pm for any last minute entrants to get involved.

Then, the children’s fancy dress competition was judged at 5.30pm on the green opposite Ainger Road.

During the carnival, several shops were open for attendees to treat themselves.

Edward’s Café in upper Dovercourt was open, Royal Oak put on a barbecue and a doughnut stall was opened outside Harwich Village Estate Agents.

Akim’s Horsebox also sold Caribbean food during the event.

The spokesman added: “It was wonderful to see so many children taking part as well and all those watching in fancy dress helped make 2022 a success

“This event raises money that is donated to local charities and good causes.”

The results saw First and Second Parkeston Scout, Topical Three, Harwich First Responders and Boogie Shoes win awards.

For all the winners visit bit.ly/3Nkklxa.