Thousands partied in the streets as residents dressed up for the Kemp Town carnival.

The parade on Saturday was led by the cast of Ladies Night from the Theatre Royal, dressed as Eighties pop group the Village People.

Thousands of residents joined in the festivities dressed as everything from American Indians to Hawaiian dancers.

Broadcaster Simon Fanshawe, who lives in Kemp Town, praised the organisers.

He said: "I like the carnival simply for the fact that it is so daft.

"People have a wonderful time dressing up and doing the silliest things.

"Kemp Town has a wonderful mix of different people and they all get on together as a community.

"You see old ladies, gay couples and families all joining in the fun.

"There were people lining the streets and hanging off their balconies cheering. Kemp Town best exemplifies the city council's policy of celebrating diversity and they do that by knowing how to have a party.

"We had six bands playing and a big firework display on the Friday night.

"The organisers deserve praise, especially councillor Gill Mitchell, who is one of the driving forces behind it."

A masquerade bed push race was held on Friday night to raise funds for the League of Hospital and Community Friends.

Teams from the Royal Sussex County Hospital and local businesses raced each other along George Street.

Organiser Lee Solden said: "We had 14 teams in fancy dress including one dressed as vixens.

"The winners were the Sudley Raving Loonies from the Sudley Arms pub.

"Everyone had a wonderful time and we hope to have raised about £1,000 for the league."

An old post office was transformed into a magical tree house for people to explore.

Theatre group Same Sky, which organises the annual Burning of the Clocks parade, was behind the project.

It turned its base in College Road into a tree house with roots winding through the basement and a gnarled old trunk growing up through the first floor. There was also a flying machine in the tree top.

Angie Biltcliffe, project director and artist, said: "We've turned it into something beautiful.

"The roots are the dark area, the trunk is the ground level and the top of the tree is risk, danger and precariousness."

The tree house is open for public performances today, tomorrow and Wednesday and there is an open day on Thursday which is not animated. Performance times vary and they are all free but those interested must book a visit on 01273 571106.