A SWINGING crowd danced their way into the record books.

Some 503 Charleston dancers broke the world record for the most people doing the 1920s routine at the same time.

During a Roaring 20s event on Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion terrace the group, led by the Debonnaire Dancers, beat the previous record of around 300 participants in Australia last year.

Known as the first social dance someone can take part in on their own, the Charleston has propelled back into popular culture in the last few years with television programmes like Strictly Come Dancing, Baz Luhrmann's re-make of The Great Gatsby, a film based on the novel set in the era, and sampling of classic tracks in new songs from artists like Will.i.am.

A big ban, stunt show, classic cars, other performances and 1920s-themed market were also arranged for the event which is part of the turn-of-the-century festival launched last year.

There was an aerial display of planes from the 1920s, including vintage tri planes, the Sopwith Camel and Focker Tridecker, plus the rare Civilian Coupe ‘Bunty’, which is one of only five made.

The 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain was also celebrated with a display of other aircraft like a Spitfire.