CROWDS lined the streets of Chester on Saturday for the ever-popular and always-colourful Diwali festival.

The Hindu 'festival of light' saw a parade organised by the Sanjhi Indian Association leave Town Hall Square and make its way to Eastgate Street for a display of traditional Indian dancing.

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Alex Black, even joined in the dancing and said: "The Diwali festival can be relied on to have spectators dancing along with the musicians and dancers. Cheshire West and Chester Council were pleased to support the celebrations again this year."

Workshops included Rangoli Diwali art cards, Diya Indian candles, Henna hand painting and Indian face-painting at the Unity Centre in Cuppin Street where people also tucked into tasty Indian food.

Sarika Kaushik, chair of Sanjhi Indian Association, said: “Diwali is an international festival celebrated across the world. We look forward to bringing the parade and dancers to Chester city centre each year.”

The Diwali celebrations included the Sai Mayur Dance, Lalitas Namaste India dance and BandBaja, UK.

Sarika added: “I’d like to thank the Sanjhi volunteers, Cheshire West and Chester Council, RK sweets Preston, Manasa's Bollywood Muvs, Sai Mayur Dance, Lalitas Namaste India dance, CHAWREC, Band Baja UK. Our Diwali celebration wouldn’t be possible without their contribution.”