If one event can truly epitomise the bringing together of a whole community - celebrating the diversity that unifies us, then it is Sidmouth's Sea Fest.

Now in its 6th year of running, the coast inspired event will take place next Saturday, May 18, from 10am – 11pm, at The Ham in Sidmouth.

While on the face of it, Sea Fest is a grassroots celebration of local music, art, craftsmanship and entertainment, accompanied by good food and drink; underlying the frivolities is a deeper more meaningful sense of connection; both between groups and individuals within the community and the issues we are faced with on a national and global level.

For example, climate change and protecting the environment are key themes throughout the event, with an organised beach clean and artwork displayed which reflects the ethos of Sidmouth being a 'plastic-free', seaside town.

The special focus this year is on the hidden history of author, fisher and social commentator, Stephen Reynolds, with 2019 marking the centenary of his death.

Stephen's extraordinary life story; one of breaking down social barriers, supporting Sidmouth's fishing community and his experience of sexual discrimination in Edwardian times, is brought to life through a community led drama production of 'A Fish Out of Water'.

Organiser, Louise Cole, said: "The Celebrating Diversity Creatively theme has been really well received, so we have a fantastic range of contributors and new activities as well as some that are becoming established traditions at Sea Fest.

"It provides a fun and welcoming opportunity for people to come together and celebrate our unique coastal location."

"The Rainbow Fish Parade is a special this year. Our Artistic Director Coco Hodgkinson has been working in all the Sidmouth Schools making fish masks with the children in preparation for it.

"The Street Heat Samba band will lead out the parade at 5pm from the Market Square, along the Esplanade to The Ham, after which local bands The Tourists, The Cormorants, Samantics and DJ Tara will be providing live performances throughout the evening."

"The Sidmouth Sea Fest Cake Off, a sea-themed cake competition, is yet another way people can really get involved. Our aim is to try and create lots of ways for people to take part easily on the day, which leads to lots of conversations, people meeting new people and trying new things."

"We've been overwhelmed by the collaboration for this year's event. In fact, just recently we found out we'll be joined by the Oarsome Foursome; four ladies who are undertaking the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge raising money for charity."

For more information click the red button below or check out the Facebook page, Sidmouth Sea Fest.