Thousands flock to Jack in the Green extravaganza

Official estimates put the number of people on the streets of the Old Town at more than 20,000 - with a similar number coming to see the scores of bikers parked up on the seafront.

The procession, which sees Morris sides, drummers and pagans escort the bush-like Jack through from Rock-a-Nore to Hastings Castle, got underway at just after 10am on Monday.

Locals and visitors lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the march - which included a sprinkling of giants, a fire breather and a host of people keen to daub onlookers with green paint.

And almost 5,000 people gathered at Hastings Castle to see the Jack get slain - releasing the spirit of summer.

See our gallery for photographs.