MORE than 1,000 people helped a Worcester community centre celebrate its 21st birthday in style.

Warndon Villages Summer Fete, organised by the Lyppard Grange Community Centre and supported by Warndon Parish Council, drew in the crowds on Sunday.

Months of preparation meant there was plenty of entertainment to keep crowds happy, including pony rides, a DJ, a rock climbing wall, a barbecue and a choir.

Games, stalls and a carousel meant there was something for children and adults and Lauren Cartwright, the deputy manager of the centre, said the day was "absolutely brilliant".

"The event was great throughout. The fete started at midday and it was busy from start to finish.

"We think around 1,500 people came out to celebrate with us, which was an amazing turn-out. We had such a huge variety of things going on and we've had some really good feedback so far.

"We put a lot of time and effort in to preparing for the fete, but it's always so worth it."

A collection of toys to be donated to Acorns Children's Hospice was held at the fete, which Mrs Cartwright said was a success.

"We have collected more than 100 toys for the children which we will present to the hospice soon," she added.

"We had a surprise flash mob too. The Express Yourself choir were performing to the crowds when Happy Steps Dance Group joined in for the surprise performance, and everyone really enjoyed that. Thanks to funding from Superact, we had the Drum Love drummers here all day and they were always busy.

"The centre certainly has been through a few changes since it was first built in 1993. Over the years our community has also grown and so has our list of activities on offer here. Today we have over 60 regular user groups including our own projects.

"Our aim is to be the focal point of our community, developing, implementing and enabling initiatives which will enrich the needs of the local community."

Kirsty Dyas attended the fete with her sons Elliott, three, and Noah, one.

She said: "My boys both thoroughly enjoyed themselves. There seemed to be a good turn out of families, and my son attends Ladybirds Nursery, who were there, so it was nice to go and support them."