The Deputy of the Cinque Port Liberty of Brightlingsea, Rob White, led a contingent of 20 people to Margate over the weekend of December 7 & 8 to participate in the annual Blessing of the Seas service and procession.

This ancient Greek Orthodox ceremony was attended by over 300 people including mayors from a number of Kent towns and ports.

The event involves a young boy retrieving a cross from the sea and doves being released to mark the baptism of Christ and Greek Orthodox New Year.