In pictures: Parade brings Hartlepool Headland Carnival to a colourful close

The parade made its way around a circular route , beginning and ending at the Borough Hall, with crowds of well-wishers turning out to cheer those taking part.

The streets were lined with families as the parade, led by a Coastguard rescue vehicle with its blue lights flashing, wound its way around the Headland.

There was music from bagpipe and drum bands, gymnastic entertainment from the Hartlepool Hawks cheerleading club, and plenty of colourful costumes on display.

Hundreds line streets for Hartlepool Headland Carnival Parade

Crowds were entertained throughout the day by a series of performances by young people from creative organisation Kyle’s Dream.

The parade was preceded by the traditional Nutty Slack Race, which saw a dozen hardy souls racing through the streets, carrying 25kg sacks of coal.