Youngsters are expected to be queuing up early to be the first to receive their free hot cross bun tomorrow (March 30).

The Good Friday event attracts hundreds of young people as part of the long standing Easter tradition.

The popular event began more than a century ago when the bakers went on strike. The townsfolk travelled to Exeter and brought back supplies and the tradition was born.

Volunteers will be handing out the treats between 9am and 10.30am in the Bedford Lawn car park following an opening ceremony conducted by Sidmouth Lion’s Ian Skinner.

If the weather is wet, the event will be held in the hall at All Saints Road. The town band will also perform on the morning.

Following the event, Sidmouth Carnival is hosting an Easter bonnet parade and egg hunt at Kennaway House.

The hunt is for children under seven years old and will take place between 11am and 1pm.

Children over eight will be able to take part in an Easter Bonnet parade on the day.

Refreshments will be provided by Sadie’s Kitchen, with proceeds going towards the town’s carnival.