It's the return of Great Yarmouth's Easter Fair

The opening of the Easter Fair in the town centre got off to a wet start today (April 4). But that did not stop some families from getting stuck in at the annual extravaganza.

Borough mayor Penny Carpenter marked the fair officially open at 4.30pm before high steward Henry Cator and council leader Carl Smith took a ride aboard the carousel.

Henry Cator and Carl Smith took a ride on the gallopers. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)Eastern Showmen's Guild steward Robert Edwards said he was excited to be back in the town.

"It's Great Yarmouth, so we normally have a good turnout. We are hoping for some sunshine this weekend though," he said.

"It's good to see people here despite the showers, but clear skies always brings more interest."

Fairgoers in Great Yarmouth got in early for the thrills. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)Old favourites have returned, including Hi-Energy, Niagara Falls and Extreme.

"If it's not broke don't fix it," Mr Edwards added.

The opening of Great Yarmouth's Easter Fair. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)This year also sees the return of the Cage - the fast-paced spinning drum ride - on Fuller's Hill.

Showman Charles Barwick said: "It's always nice to see people taking their time to walk around.

"One of the great things about the fair in Great Yarmouth is its hard-standing. At least we don't have to worry about it being muddy if the rain does persist."

Sydnie-Rose, aged two, on one of the rides at the Great Yarmouth Easter Fair. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)According to the Met Office, the weather is supposed to improve over the coming days. Thursday evening will be cloudy with chances of rain and highs of 11 degrees, and Friday is forecast to be rainy in the morning and sunnier as the day goes along, with highs of 17 degrees.

The weekend is set to have sunny intervals throughout both days, with highs of 19 degrees Saturday lunchtime and 15 degrees throughout Sunday afternoon.

Ethan Martinez, three, on one of the rides at the Great Yarmouth Easter Fair. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)The Easter Fair continues tonight until 11pm, and will be open 11am until 11pm Friday and Saturday, and noon until 6pm on Sunday.

Big Sean Edwards by Hi-Energy at Great Yarmouth Easter Fair. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)Collin Daniel, six. on one of the rides at the Great Yarmouth Easter Fair. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)Scott Potter, left, and Brian Edmonds of Discreet Security by the Helter Skelter. Picture - Denise Bradley (Image: Denise Bradley)Henry Cator, left, Great Yarmouth High Steward, with mayor Penny Carpenter,: police cadet Harry Love, and Robert Edwards, chief steward from the Showmen's Guild at the Great Yarmouth Easter Fair. (Image: Denise Bradley)