HUNDREDS of people are expected to descend on a North-East town this weekend as a popular annual event gets underway.

More than 600 people will make their way through the streets of Darlington on Saturday (June 28) as part of the annual community carnival.

The carnival parade will leave the market square at noon and work its way through the town before arriving at Stanhope Park, with street entertainers performing along the route.

Dozens of community groups will take part in the parade, including Red Hall Dance Company, Tiffany School of Dance, Girl Guides, Humersknott Samba Band, Identity Theatre, Stagecoach Darlington, Friends of the Earth and The Rhythm Train.

A number of local primary schools will also take part, including High Coniscliffe and Rydal Academy.

This year’s theme is dancing in the street and dance performances will take place throughout the day from 10am in the market square and from 10.30am to noon at Joseph Pease Place, before continuing throughout the afternoon at Stanhope Park.

The event will raise money for the Dogs Trust and community groups and schools have been working with local artists to create colourful costumes, sculptures and banners for the parade.

For more information visit facebook.com/darlingtoncommunitycarnival or follow @darlocarnival on Twitter.