Eel meat again

Things to do, places to go thei wekend

If you fancy a bit of good old-fashioned entertainment this weekend, you could do worse than put on yer best whistle and get a return bat and wicket to Margate. You'll be guaranteed the best in East End hospitality as the pearly kings and queens, resplendent in traditional garb, join with locals for the third annual Cockney Festival.

Margate, "the lungs of London", has always had strong links with the smoke, being a preferred coastal getaway for the capital's residents. Among the festival highlights are firework displays, the Cockney Classic Car Rally and Parade, a London-style market and the longest Lambeth Walk. The town's magnificent 16th-century Tudor House will be open for information for the duration of the celebrations.

Alternatively you can join members of the Original Pearly Kings and Queens Assocation for a few tiddlies and an old-fashioned pub singalong, to the dulcet tones of the Tenet Croakers and the Acker Rejects.

And if you're boracic until the end of the month, worry not - a lot of the events, such as the craft fair and the live music in the market place are free.

Today & Sun, venues around Margate, Kent. Info: Tourist Department, Thanet District Council, The Roundhouse, Marine Terrace, Margate (01843 225511)