GIANT models of the city’s biggest and brightest characters lined Brighton and Hove’s streets to mark the opening of the Brighton Festival.

The Children’s Parade on Saturday was one to remember as 5,000 youngsters from 67 schools and community groups took part with 20,000 people there in total.

This year’s theme was Brighton Celebrates, and it saw three Fatboy Slims, a dancing Disco Pete, Prince Regent on his throne, Duke of York’s Cinema, the Palace Pier, Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell, David Bowie, beach huts, afternoon tea at The Grand and dozens of other iconic Brighton figures and landmarks.

The celebrations kicked off the 50th Brighton Festival and the Children’s Parade is jointly produced with award-winning community arts organisation Same Sky.

John Varah, artistic director at Same Sky, said: "It was brilliant, the weather was just right, because sometimes it’s too hot and the last few years has been quite drizzly and grim.

“And on top of that it brought out some of the best stuff people have made for years.

“It was nice to see all the things people thought about when it came to Brighton.

“Lots of people dressed up and it was nice to see all the parents made the effort as well.

“It was full of colour, and I think this was our best yet.

“The ideas the people had were exciting and we’re over the moon.

“It gets tighter and tighter with funding ever year so I have to thank the schools for keeping at it and getting involved – it really helps keep the spirit alive.”

Coombe Road Primary School paid homage to Green Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas, who was thrilled, and tweeted: “Represented in #ChildrensParade - I can die happy now!!

“Thanks so much to Coombe Road for amazing work! #Brighton.”