Thousands gathered on a town's street for the return of its annual Easter Bonnet Parade which has been praised as an overwhelming success.
Lyme Regis’ Easter Bonnet Parade took place on Easter Sunday and attracted crowds of residents and visitors to watch the spectacle as it made its way through the town.
The parade was led by the mayor of Lyme Regis, Brian Larcombe, and the Lyme Regis Majorettes.
Entrants of all ages took part and prior to the parade, from 2pm, all of the children's bonnets were judged in the Baptist Church.
Picture: Rob James
At 3pm, the entrants, donning their festive hat, then made their way down Broad Street to Cobb Gate then proceeded along Cart Road and Marine Parade to the Jubilee Pavilion.
This is the first time the annual Easter Bonnet Parade has been able to take place in person since 2019 due to the coronavirus pandemic. For the last two years the event has been held virtually.
Picture: Rob James
The parade was organised by the Lyme Regis and Regatta Carnival Committee with the support of the town council.
Alan Vian, town crier and chairman of the Lyme Regis and Regatta Carnival Committee, said that the streets were 'packed with people' on Sunday and that over 50 bonnets were judged at the church.
He said: "It was so lovely to be back together and see people again.
"It was lovely for the children showing off their bonnets.
"It was better than we could have hoped. It's a great start to this year's events in Lyme Regis and I'm so delighted that so many people took part.
Picture: Rob James
On the Easter bonnets at the parade, Mr Vian said: "There were some really amazing creations at the parade, some simple ones and some very complicated ones, but all of them reflected the fun we think of at Easter time."
Lyme Regis Town Councillor, Belinda Bawden, said: "I had a collecting bucket for the Regatta and Carnival Committee and was delighted to see both the Easter Bonnet Parade and the Easter Monday Duck Race attract such large crowds. The weather was ideal and both events brought happy smiles to everyone watching as the Majorettes performed beautifully and the creative talents of the Easter Bonnet participants were displayed.
"Thanks to the Regatta and Carnival Committee and everyone concerned for organising both events so smoothly for everyone’s enjoyment last weekend."
Proceeds from the event will be distributed to good causes.
Bridport resident, Charlotte Robertson, said she was able to watch the parade from where she works at the Royal Lion Hotel on Broad Street.
She said: "It was really nice to see everyone out enjoying the parade. Everyone was enjoying themselves."
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