BRIGHTON baked in the seventies as the town enjoyed one of its busiest Bank Holidays in years.

It was standing room only on Sussex beaches as thousands flocked to the coast.

The influx brought many parts of the town to a standstill as cars packed with sunworshippers choked the roads.

Police reported a huge tailback on the southbound carriageway of the A23, stretching seven miles from Brighton to Burgess Hill.

Aspokesman for Brighton's Palace Pier said: "It was a fantastic weekend. We were very busy and it was all thanks to the weather.

"Everyone was in a great mood and very happy - although there were lots of burned shoulders."

Families were out in force for events across the area, including a sponsored toddle and fun run at Hove Lawns.

More than 40 youngsters under five took part in the 350-metre toddle around the lawns near the King Alfred Leisure Centre, started by Charlie Argus.

People aged from ten to 77 took part in the six-mile fun run from the lawns to Hove Lagoon and the Peace Statue and back again, started by Hove MP Ivor Caplin.

Also at the event were the Sussex Army Cadet Corps of Drums who acted as marshalls along the route.

All the money raised will go to the Royal Alexandra Hospital's Rockinghorse Appeal to help buy medical equipment.

Joan Goddard, from the Rockinghorse Appeal, said: "The event was a great success.

"The children who took part in the toddle were all given a sweet at the end as a reward."

Ian Chapman, Brighton and Hove council's seafront officer, spotted a few brave swimmers in the chilly sea, although there were plenty of people paddling.

He said: "It was a gorgeous day and the beach was absolutely packed. Traders were very busy, which will mean a good early season boost for them.

"Bars and restaurants were full and everyone seemed to be enjoying this extremely sunny Bank Holiday weekend."

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