SANDOWN was positively buzzing at the weekend, as hundreds flocked to the seafront for its annual regatta.

In so doing, visitors witnessed the revival of the much-loved tradition of wearing a hat, as crowds gathered on the beach for a grand parade.

In the weeks prior, the town was busy making hats for the occasion, and visitors were encouraged to don their favourite headwear for this year’s festivities.

Big hats in the style of legendary hat maker, Gertrude Shilling, were among those on display.

Isle of Wight County Press: Sandown Greentown Volunteers Kim Hodson, Denise Lindley and Christine Jackson.Sandown Greentown Volunteers Kim Hodson, Denise Lindley and Christine Jackson. (Image: County Press)

Primary school pupils and care home residents also contributed, making environmentally friendly seed paper hats which can be planted after use.

Isle of Wight County Press: The hat parade on Sandown beach.The hat parade on Sandown beach. (Image: County Press)

Yesterday (Sunday), those in attendance were treated to all-day entertainment from the likes of Joe Plumb and the Horse Box Theatre Company, David Randini, and Punch and Judy.

Isle of Wight County Press: David Randini performing magic tricks.David Randini performing magic tricks. (Image: County Press)

DJ Paul Holbrook of Soundwaves Entertainment provided the music and fun at the Regatta Beach Arena near Eastern Gardens, and there was an Esplanade street market between 10am and 4pm.

Isle of Wight County Press: The hat parade on Sandown beach.The hat parade on Sandown beach. (Image: County Press)

On Saturday, a Regatta Dog Show was held at Sandham Gardens between 10am and 1pm, followed by a samba drumming and flag-making session with the New Carnival Company.

Isle of Wight County Press: A crowd of people walking along Sandown seafront.A crowd of people walking along Sandown seafront. (Image: County Press)