CARNIVAL Week in Dawlish kicks off today, starting a packed programme of entertainment.

Volunteers running Dawlish Celebrates Carnival have put together a whirlwind of a week, culminating on Friday with the community parade.

Among the highlights will be the 50th anniversary of the iconic Pram Race and a flypast by a Spitfire aircraft.

Events will be going on throughout the day today in the marquee, on the Lawn arena and the Bandstand. 

Teignbridge Taekwon-Do Academy will be giving a demonstration and then it’s the turn of Dawlish Rockwaves Choir will their performance. 

There will also be a mountain bike show, junk modelling and a scavenger hunt. 

Later in the afternoon Steve Chisholm and his Art Deco Band will be providing the music.

And in the evening, it’s carnival bingo led by Dawlish bingo king Jimmy Hill in the marquee. 

Mayor of Dawlish Rosie Dawson will carry out the official opening on Sunday at 2pm at the Bandstand with Mr England, otherwise known as Peter Cross and they will be joined by Dawlish councillors. 

Throughout the week there are ongoing events and competitions including the Misplaced Article, Best Dress Window, Treasure Trail and quizzes. 

Programmes are available to buy at outlets around the town and to download from the Dawlish Celebrates Carnival website.