Seaside fun returns to Sandown today (Saturday), as the Isle of Wight town welcomes back its 167-year-old regatta.

The event promises a packed programme of entertainment across today and tomorrow (Sunday).

This morning, there will be a dog show at Sandham Gardens, followed by a chance for all the family to learn how to play samba drums in the afternoon. 

On Sunday, there will be family entertainment along Sandown Esplanade.

A month of community hat making will culminate with the Grand Regatta Hat Parade, at 2.30pm on Sunday.

All creators are given a chance to show off their work and win a £100 prize for best hat.

Endorsing the hat marking is celebrity milliner David Shilling, who designed extravagant hats for his late mother Gertrude — the Mascot of Ascot.

He said:​ "I am so glad to hear you are going a-head (pun intended) again with a hat extravaganza this summer — last year was so epic!"

Sandown Regatta's fireworks return at 9.15pm on Sunday, with sponsorship from the Driftwood Beach Bar.

Sandown Carnival chair Paul Coueslant said: "We’re hugely grateful to all who've come forward to partner us in 2024, the future of Sandown Bay Regatta is secure if local business feels part of the occasion and is keen to contribute".

More can be found at www.sandowncarnival.com/regatta.