Thousands are lining the streets for a colourful religious festival.

People in Gravesend are taking part in the start of the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi.

The festival is part of the global celebration of the creation of the Khalsa – a collective of committed Sikhs who are leaders and defenders of the Sikh way.

But it is not just Sikhs who are celebrating the event as “everyone is welcome to come and join the festivities,” Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara Management Team said.

For more on the background of the celebration click here

Pictures show multi-coloured bunting coming off of The Guru Nanak Temple in Khalasa Avenue where the parade – called Nagar Kirtan – kicked off at 11.30 this morning.

Communities across Kent and southeast London took part in the procession which marched through Gravesend town centre and past the Ravidas Gurdwara in Brandon Street.

It then passed the old gurdwara site in Clarence Place, down Wellington Street before it looped back to the Gurdwara.

It was led by the five beloved, flag bearers and Sikh holy scriptures, Guru Granth Sahib carried on a model of the Golden Temple in Punjab.

The rest of the congregation (Sangat) will follow them from behind on foot, or on floats.

Ellenor catering team served a selection of egg-free cakes and sweet treats and a team from Tesco was also handing out free food.

The procession was supported by Kent Police, Gravesham Council, Kent Fire and Rescue Service and St John Ambulance.

From 2pm to 6pm there will be a religious festival known as Dharmic Mela in the gurdwara grounds with religious songs and stage music.

There will be a funfair and stalls from local and national charities, businesses and agencies.

On Sunday, April 14 there will be a celebratory service (Gurpub) at the gurdwara.