THE start of May in Wivenhoe was welcomed with a celebration of International Workers’ Day.

The Bank Holiday event was a first for the town’s congregational church and included an eclectic mix of performers, speakers and food.

Rosalind Scott, one of the organisers, was pleased with how it went.

She said: “We were really pleased with it, it was a really good turnout - over the whole day we had about 200 people.”

Speakers’ topics varied including one on revolutionary music.

There were also poets’ recitals and music ranged from folk singing to jazz and blues.

Food was also on the go, including a Syrian cafe and a barbecue.

Ms Scott, who represents Wivenhoe on Colchester Council (Lab) and is chairman of Refugee Action Colchester, said she was certain the event would return next year.

She added: “The atmosphere was so buzzing and cheerful. The discussions were so lively. It was a really good feel-good day.”

The event’s main organiser was Wivenhoe poet Mike Bailey.

International Workers’ Day is a celebration of labourers and the working classes.