THOUSANDS flocked to Northlands Park to celebrate this year’s Basildon and Pitsea Carnival.

Families enjoyed entertainment in the park, after the procession through Pitsea.

The carnival started at Eversley Leisure Centre, in Crest Avenue, at 1pm.

The route took the floats through Rectory Road, Tyefields, Lanham, Felmores and into Northlands Park.

This year, the event was held to raise money for the Rainbow Trust, a children’s charity that provides emotional and practical support to families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness.

Chairman Stuart Terson said: “Apart from the weather it went very well. The parade got in and then it rained so unfortunately we had to cut short the festival, but so far no-one has worked out a way to control the weather.

“I was really pleased with the participation, we had the Scouts take part for the first time in 20 years and Selco, which has just opened in the town.

“We had 24 floats in all and next year I would like to see even more groups taking part.”

Following the parade there was a festival from 11.30am to 6pm at Northlands Park.

Artists included Beyonce and Olly Murs tribute acts and music from DJ Luxe, Jess Folley, Arron Martyn and Cream and The Voice Kid’s winner Jess Foley .