THOUSANDS of visitors gathered to watch as participants dragged themselves through thick mud at a world-famous event.

The Maldon Mud Race attracted more than 15,000 to Maldon Promenade Park on Sunday.

Many of the 300 entrants in the race dressed up in colourful and hilarious costumes.

One man was dressed as a giant whoopie cushion, a group of participants were dressed as pirates and another participant was dressed as a giant t-rex.

The mud race team were pleased to host another safe and exciting day.

There was a full day of stage entertainment provided by BBC Essex which included a DJ set from soul legend John Leech.

There was a range of stalls, attractions, street food, bars and a fun fair for visitors to enjoy.

The mud race thanked its sponsors for helping them run the event, including Maldon Oysters, Tesco Maldon, Dominos Maldon, Maldon scaffolding, Sark restaurant, Paparazzi and Maldon Deckchairs.

The event raises thousands every year for multiple charities, which include Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, Little Havens Hospice and Maldon and District Sea Cadets.

Chairman Brian Farrington said: “We were so lucky with great weather again this year plus a huge community turnout which will allow us to distribute a large amount to many local charities later in the year and I want to thank all the entrants, spectators, sponsors and volunteers that make this incredible event happen.

He added: “We were so lucky this year that comedian Jo Brand and her lovely daughter Maisie and boyfriend Alfie once again supported us, along with BBC Essex’s Sonia and Ben and Matt Mackay as well as Becky Jago from ITV Regional News.

“The additional publicity we received from all their support ensured we had another phenomenal event in Maldon Promenade Park.”