Singer Benny Gallagher says he was pleased and surprised when given the chance to perform at the water festival.

Mr Gallagher, of chart-topping duo Gallagher and Lyle, was so delighted by the reception he has vowed to return next year.

He was visiting his daughter in the town when the invitation to perform was made.

"I came down because my daughter has the King's Head," he said. "When she asked me to sing I thought it would be in the pub, not in front of 12,000 people."

"The festival itself was really spectacular and the fireworks were magnificent.

"I was on tour in Sydney when they had the Olympic firework display and if Upton people continue in the way they have done, they'll be there themselves in a few years!"