Clacton's West Beach was transformed into a building site yesterday (Wednesday) as youngsters flocked to take part in the carnival sand-castle competition.

A massive turnout of 125 entrants battled it out in the sun.

They came up with many variations on the traditional sand-castle. Unusual efforts included a dolphin, surfer and a mermaid.

There was a special appearance from comedian Bernie Clifton, who is on at the town's Westcliff Theatre.

Sand-castle competition winners were: Six and under: Sam White; seven to nine years: Amy Foweraker; ten to 14 years: Lisa Hassett.

Pairs: Six and under: Nathan Moss and Thomas Moody; seven to 11 years: Karina Snelling and Sarah Walton; 12 to 14 years: Amy Harris and Louise Lawrence.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.