A feast of summer entertainment greeted Blackwell residents when they visited their village fete.

Hundreds of visitors basked in the warm sunshine as youngsters enjoyed pony rides, a bouncy castle, tombola and a balloon race. The event was organised by Linthurst First School's Parent Teacher Association.

Colin Morris, headteacher of the St Catherine's Road school, said: "Everyone had a wonderful time and the fete carried on long into the afternoon. The children, especially, enjoyed the balloon race. There is a special prize for the balloon that travels the furthest."

Mr Morris added that they had made more money than last year. Fete organisers expect to have raised more than £1,000 towards decorating and equipping a new classroom.

The head added that many groups, including the Blackwell Toddlers, Montessori Nursery, St Catherine's Church and the Scouts, helped to make the day a success.

"We would like to thank everyone, especially the parents, who helped support and organise the event. It was a really good community effort," he added.