May Day Sweeps

Pearly Kings and Queens, gothic morris dancers, chimney sweeps and steam punk accordion players ... it could only be the Rochester Sweeps Festival.

A cheery troop of morris dancers is more than happy to pose for the camera.

The fete takes place within the castle grounds as well and it's always fun to see a chimney sweep on the carousel.

Morris dancers perform along the length of Rochester high street thoughout the three-day event.

The costumes range from very traditional to completely wacky.

Each troop is different and crowds gather to watch all the variations of morris dance.