The sun is out, the boats are gathering - Maidstone is gearing up for the river festival tomorrow.

With its theme of "Invaders" this year's festival will kick off tomorrow (Saturday) but police are urging people not to be tempted to invade the river themselves.

With the recent warm spell set to continue, officers are urging people to act responsibly around the water.

Chief Insp Bryan Whittaker, who is co-ordinating the policing of the event, said: "The river festival is always a really popular event, and there will be plenty of officers on the streets to make sure everyone enjoys the weekend safely. In previous years we have had people jump into the river and I would strongly urge visitors not to do this. With lots of boat movements, unclean water, and some people under the influence of alcohol, it is an all-round dangerous mix.

"There is an alcohol control zone within Maidstone and we will enforce that where necessary. We want everyone to have a good time so will be dealing quickly with any anti-social behaviour to make sure the minority don’t spoil the atmosphere for everyone else.”

The festival will be opened at noon, with festivities carrying on through to the fireworks display at 10.30pm.

The raft race will take place at 2.30pm and there will be an illuminated boat parade in the evening, plus a funfair at Lockmeadow and music stages in Brenchley Gardens, infront of the Archbishop's Palace and on the river in front of Drakes.

Martin Cox, chairman of the festival committee, said: "Many thanks to all of the local businesses that have supported the festival, and to the staff at Maidstone council whose expertise has been invaluable in bringing the festival back to Maidstone for 2013."