CLACTON's 150 birthday was celebrated in style at Princes Theatre.

The landmark event was marked by the glitzy black-tie Dinner Dance event last week.

As well as enjoying a three-course meal, guests were treated to a variety of entertainment, from vintage singing group The Harmonettes and soul band Wully Bully, to magician Danny Lee Grew and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett.

Upon arrival pianist Simon Smith-Daye welcomed guests, who could also enjoy an exhibition of vintage Princes Theatre posters and memorabilia from through the decades.

Tendring councillor Alex Porter, responsible for leisure and tourism, said: “While some of our Clacton 150 events see you get active, such as by exploring the heritage trail, this Dinner Dance brought a touch of class and a more glamorous celebration of our town’s birthday.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the evening and, judging from the conversations I had and seeing people getting up and dancing, so did all the other guests too.

“It was a great occasion to raise a glass to Clacton, and I look forward to the celebrations continuing.”

The Clacton 150 celebrations received £250,000 from the National Heritage Lottery Fund.

The town was formed in the late 1871 when the Pier, Royal Hotel and station were built as part of a new Victorian seaside resort.