Hundreds of primary schoolchildren took part in a colourful carnival parade to celebrate the launch of this year's Maidstone Mela.

A parade of youngsters left County Hall, in Week Street, at around 1.30pm and headed through the town centre to Brenchley Gardens.

They were joined by musicians and performers who will feature at Sunday's main event in Mote Park.

The annual Maidstone Mela celebrates the town's different cultures and traditions through song, dance and food.

A range of acts will appear on the open air stage between 12.30pm and 7pm, including Bollywood Blast, Gypsy Stars, an Afro-Bhangra fusion piece featuring Four by Four Bhangra and Uzambezi Arts, and soul star Ruby Turner.