QUIRKY singing groups from across Europe descended on the coast for a popular celebration of the hearty sea shanty.

Now in its 13th year, the Harwich International Shanty Festival attracts thousands of people to the town for a day of musical jubilation.

The event celebrates the historic town’s maritime heritage, blossoming into the second largest shanty festival in the country.

Around 37 groups and singers travelled to Harwich to perform, from countries including Spain, Russia and The Netherlands.

Crowds headed to more than 30 venues across Harwich, including pubs and the Napoleonic Redoubt Fort, which all hosted live acts.

There were concerts, sing-a-round sessions, workshops, illustrated talks and crafts.