If there's one thing we can be sure of, it's that Bridport knows how to put on a good show!

Thousands of people took to the streets for Bridport Hat Festival on 'Haturday', displaying an amazing array of colourful - and very imaginative - hats.

The sun was shining on Bucky Doo Square as the winners of the Best Hatted competitions were announced for the categories: Lady, Gent, Girl, Boy, Couple, Family or Group before the all-important mass-hatted photo at 1pm.

The remarkable, and very 'Bridport', event marked its 10th year, and seemingly only increases in popularity. Strangers stopped each other in the streets to take photographs of each another in crazy hats and there was no shortage of creativity.

Despite being on holiday, many tourists found time to create and put a lot of hard work into their own hats, joining the many locals who put in a great effort each and every year.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

  • Guy Heathcote in a flower suit at the Bridport Hat Festival   Picture: Graham Hunt Photography

The fun didn't stop after the competitions - and the party carried on at the Millennium Green, where live music was performed throughout the day and into the night. 

A vintage tea party and competition for the most elegant ensemble also took place.

Dynamic Dance got the crowd dancing at the borough gardens, and talk about John Richards' Lapenotière was given by Kathy Brown in the ballroom at The Bull.

Venues across town paid their own homage to the festival, with window displays and events in honour of the wacky festival.

Even dogs got involved - and had their own competition. 

On a more serious note, Bridport Hat Festival raises thousands of pounds for head-related charities.

The festival donates all profits (except running costs) to head-related charities and regularly donates to Brain Tumour Research and the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust. If enough funds are raised in any given year (through sponsorship, raffles etc, and donations including tin-rattling on the day) the hat festival helps other, more local, head-related good causes as well.

See if you can spot yourself in our gallery!