18 Stunning photos capture Whitby's sunny start to the summer holidays

Our photographer Richard Ponter headed out to capture the first official day of the summer holidays – and with glorious sunshine, happy families, and the sea sparkling under clear blue skies, he captured Whitby at its very best.

The summer holidays got off to the perfect start as glorious sunshine drew thousands of families to Whitby.

With schools across North Yorkshire breaking up for the long summer holiday, our photographer headed into town to capture the first day of the six-week break.

Capturing stunning views, smiling faces and glorious sunshine, Richard captured Whitby is at its best on a sunny summer's day.

Take a look through these fantastic photographs from a picture-perfect start to the summer holidays.