FAMILIES enjoyed a festival atmosphere at Colchester’s Castle Park with the return of a free one-day event.

The Young Children’s Festival in the upper park was attended by around 5,000 people.

The event included arts, crafts and sports workshops as well as free children’s clothes and books.

A fun fair, food stalls and information stands were also on offer while children’s dance and sports displays could be seen in the arena.

Harriet Miller, who is the chairwoman of the volunteer organisers, said: “What a fantastic day we had.

“The weather held off despite threatening rain, and hundreds of families turned out.

“The upper park was buzzing with art, craft, sport and circus skills to join in and try, lots of spectacular displays in the arena from dance and sports clubs, as well as masses of information about community activities and sources of advice and support for parents.

“Big thanks too to all the kind people who put a donation in the buckets, ensuring we will be raring to go next year which will be our 25th annual festival.”

This year’s main festival partners were Colchester Council’s Livewell Campaign, and the charity Community360.

Grants were also provided by Grassroots Charity and Essex Community Foundation.