TENS of thousands of people are expected to pack out Swanage this weekend (JULY 29/30), as the town's carnival and regatta week gets underway.

The fun starts on 'Super Saturday' with a packed programme at Sandpit Field, including live music on the marquee main stage and even a dog and duck show.

Throughout the week more than 100 events will be taking place across Swanage, but the highlight for many will be Sunday afternoon's (JULY 30) carnival procession.

A carnival spokesman carnival said:"The 2017 theme is 'Swanage goes Global' so take your inspiration from around the world and don't forget - it is not too late to enter a float, entry forms can be found on our website.

"We also have Titan the Robot, seven nights of live music, including some brand new local bands and some popular favourites, the ever popular carnival bingo and three fantastic firework displays."

As the week of activities nears an end, the RAF Red Arrows will be putting on a show over Swanage Bay. The Reds are set to display at 3.30pm on Friday, August 4.

The spokesman added: "Back by popular demand is the Swanage Carnival Zip Line across Prince Albert Gardens, for the duration of the week courtesy of local company JM Adventure.

"You will have the opportunity to whizz across Prince Albert Gardens and take in views of Swanage Bay.

"Starts collecting your coins now and remember to put a pound or two in the buckets to help keep our carnival running and to raise money for our local charities and good causes."

Last year's carnival raised more than £23,000 for charity and local causes, with more than 40,000 people lining the seafront and surrounding roads for the carnival parade alone.