A seaside town's first festival was under way today after a colourful start.

Hundreds turned out for the grand opening of Newhaven Festival Week, which runs until Sunday.

The event, organised by Special Events Newhaven, promises to provide fun for residents and visitors of all ages.

Yesterday, the fun kicked off with a celebratory evening of food and dancing.

Newhaven mayor David Fitton officially opened proceedings in the High Street.

The programme included a line dancing display by the Jean Cantell dancers and a march past by the town's youth band.

The first day of the festival was rounded off with a barbecue at the Ark Inn.

Newhaven Festival continues throughout the week with a host of events for all the family.

The mayor was today taking part in a sponsored swim at Seahaven Pool to raise money for a special care baby unit at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.

He was among a group of swimmers aiming to swim 62 miles, the distance from Newhaven to Dieppe.

Other events include arts and crafts displays, theatre and a culminating Songs of Praise service on Sunday.

Festival programmes and tickets are are on sale at the Newhaven Volunteer Bureau, the Ark Inn and Villa Adriana.