East Hoathly Pram Race - in pictures

First, the village raised enough money to buy and run the Kings Head, its last remaining and much loved pub. This will now operate as a community business.

And secondly the village came together on Boxing Day for the annual Pram Race. This beat all past records, pulling in its biggest ever crowd of onlookers, largest flotilla of 'prams' and most successful fundraise for the Carnival Society. This will help pay for next year's event.

Carnival Society chair and Pram Race organiser Ant Beckvar said: "It was a really big crowd and the among raised by our raffle exceeded expectations. It will ensure a really superb Carnival next year."

Ant explained there were upwards of 18 prams entered this year: "All the competitors were young teens. That really gives us hope for the future."

The annual East Hoathly Pram Race takes competitors westwards through the village to a point where they get a stamp (to prove they've made it) and back to the Kings Head where they receive another stamp.

Watchers were crammed onto pavements, shouting encouragement to 'their' team. Winner this year was a young group which created a Nativity theme with Mary, Joseph, shepherds, kings and baby Jesus. The award for the best dressed went to a Viking longship.