MERMAIDS, mermen, pirates and sea creatures of all kinds took to the coast at the weekend for an eye-catching event.

The annual March of the Mermaids in Brighton is now in its fourth year and once again drew plenty of interest from passers-by on the busy seafront.

There were also a range of stalls and activities throughout the day and the march was followed by a family-friendly after party.

The march is inspired by the Coney Island Mermaid Parade in New York and its aim is to celebrate seas and sea life while raising awareness of conservation issues.

Organisers have now joined forces with WhaleFest and on the day of the parade raised funds for the World Cetacean Alliance.

WhaleFest brings the world together to give marine life and the oceans a bigger voice and the alliance works to protect whales, dolphins and porpoises.