DAZZLINGLY colourful, lively, noisy and joyful – that was Felixstowe as the resort enjoyed its celebration of the nations.Thousands packed the streets to watch the annual carnival parade wind its way through the resort from the town centre to the seafront.

DAZZLINGLY colourful, lively, noisy and joyful - that was Felixstowe as the resort enjoyed its celebration of the nations.

Thousands packed the streets to watch the annual carnival parade wind its way through the resort from the town centre to the seafront.

Despite a delayed start, revellers waited patiently in the sweltering seaside sunshine for the floats to arrive and were not disappointed and were treated to a marvellous cavalcade.

The procession of nearly 50 entries took more than an hour to pass by, bringing the town to a standstill.

With the theme Countries of the World, it was led appropriately by the Suffolk School of Samba, whose infectious rhythms, drumming and dancing set the mood.

Close behind was carnival queen 16-year-old Hannah Devine and her princesses Lydia Carey and Keely Bremner, both ten, waving to the crowds and enjoying their big day.

Groups, organisations and businesses as always had worked tremendously hard on the decorated floats - with imaginative scenery, excellent costumes and lots of inventive touches.

The theme provided plenty of fun with everyone getting the chance to wear their favourite national costume.

Computing Needs' spectacular Spanish fiesta float - with the lorry cab having bulls horn's and a face - was typical of the high standard and effort of those on board.

Following behind were floats of Egyptians, Austrians, Greeks, Japanese, Americans, Swiss and French and more.

Felixstowe Lions stuck to home soil and celebrated the life of Britain - with WG Grace and Britannia on board - while the Dolphin Hotel's stylish float was everything Irish, even featuring a bar and leprechauns.

The Caretaker's House Swiss float was excellent and even featured mountains, while the Bible Society turned its attention to the Welsh tale which led to its formation 200 years ago.

Majorette troupes taking part included Ipswich Imperials, Clacton Kingfishers, Silver Spinners, Galaxy Twirlers, Silver Knights, Felixstowe Poloz, and Felixstowe Technotronics

Extra glamour was added by the carnival courts from Trimley and Stowmarket.

Organisers were thrilled with the quality and length of the procession and the huge numbers who turned out to see it.

The weekend also featured a packed programme of events and celebrations in Langer Park, including a cycle stunt show, tribute bands, groups, American wrestling and fireworks.

People on the beach and seafront were able to see an air display by Nigel Willson in his YAK 52 and also by an RAF Tornado F3 fighter plane, and an air-sea search and rescue demonstration.