DROITWICH beat the weather to celebrate its heritage.

The town celebrated its long history of salt production with SaltFest on Saturday and Sunday, featuring Roman soldiers marching through the streets with the Droitwich Air Cadets Band.

The weekend also celebrates John Corbett, known as the salt king, for his role in salt mining in Droitwich during the 19th century.

The mayor of Droitwich, Councillor Roy Murphy said: "It is a celebration of Droitwich salt history and its heritage which is really quite considerable.

"It is also a big funday for people to enjoy and that is what event like this are all about, with activities on all day."

Droitwich's association with salt is said to have begun in the Iron Age, but the Romans developed the trade of salt substantially, as well as introducing civilisation.

The Roman soldiers represented all had the names of real Roman soldiers found on gravestones, with most of them actually in the 14th legion that was being recreated.

As well as marching through the street, soldiers did demonstrations and showed what equipment a Roman would have with them on the average day.

Mark Hatch, one of these soldiers from the Roman Military Research Society said: "The Romans brought civilisation to people.

"They built things like roads and aqueducts, introduced law and order.

"Our purpose is two fold really, to educate about Roman history and also to entertain people."

As well as celebrating Droitwich's heritage, the day also saw a number of stalls in operation, raising money for local charities.

Live music was also performed throughout the day.

Councillor John Smith, said at the festival: "It is a very good idea that is run very well.

"Salt is a big part of the heritage here, not just in Droitwich but many other places in Wychavon and it is right that it is celebrated."

Shirley Walsh, who was dressed as the governor's wife said: "It is a really lovely setting and whilst it is a pity about the weather it is a really good occasion."