Cromer's fastest and most skilled waiters and waitresses took to the streets today for a popular carnival tradition.

The waiters' and waitresses' race and best dressed waiters' and waitresses' competition, part of Cromer Carnival, was held on the Pier Forecourt in front of dozens of people.

Businesses from around the town were represented including the Red Lion Hotel, Cliftonville Hotel, Virginia Court Hotel, Northrepps Cottage Country Hotel, Breakers Cafe, Links Hotel in West Runton, Sandcliff Hotel, Bella Vista restaurant and the Sea Marge Hotel in Overstrand.

Cromer Carnival chairman Tony Shipp said: 'The competition has been very good. We have had a really fantastic weekend. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and getting into the carnival spirit.'

The waiters' and waitresses' race and best dressed competition are the oldest traditions in the carnival and have been taking place since the 1950s.

This year saw 16 waiters and 23 waitresses take part.

During the race they had to run to one end of the promenade in 2 minutes 30 seconds while carrying a tray of four drinks.

The winners were the fastest competitors who spilled the least amount of liquid.

Andreas Yiasimi, North Norfolk District Council member, said: 'The waiters' and waitresses' race is one of the most exciting events of the whole carnival because everyone gets into it and it oozes competitiveness.'

The winner of the waiters' race was Jamie Barnes, 17, from the Red Lion, who also won best dressed waiter.

The winner of the waitresses' race was Hattie Digby, from Virginia Court Hotel and the winner of the best dressed waitress competition was Kiaya Spells, also from Virginia Court Hotel.

Miss Spells, 21, from Northrepps, said: 'I didn't think I would win.'

The carnival finishes this Friday.

Visit www. cromercarnival.co.uk for more information about other events.