THOUSANDS of people lined the streets of Cricklade on Sunday to go on an exciting journey through space and time.

This year’s science-fiction themed Cricklade Festival, kicked-off exciting with an exciting carnival parade which included characters from popular TV and film franchises, Red Dwarf and Star Wars and music from the Cricklade band.

A host of activities took place on St Sampson's Primary School field, such as a a laser quest challenge and a funfair entertained young and old alike at the bottom of the High Street .

Entertainment came in the shape of live music and performances by acrobatic duo Leap, juggler Rod Laver, and shopping trolley dance and display team Granny Turismo.

Stalls lined the streets and included world food, hog roasts and games and tombolas put on by Cricklade Scouts and various community groups.

Evelyn Stayle, from Blunsdon, who attended the festival with husband Bernie and her granddaughter Georgie, gave the festival a glowing review.

She said: “This is the first time we have brought her and I think it is absolutely brilliant. I think it is a really good family day out and the fun fair is a really good family day out.

“Her little eyes were popping out of her head – it was the first time she has been to a funfair like that.”

Claire Case from Cricklade, attended with her friends from Swindon and she said it was the best Cricklade Festival she has attended.

“I love it, we have lived here for six years and we haven’t missed one yet. It always seems to be bigger and better every year. ”

Crowds were captivated by a stunning performance from Charmaine and Rueben from Strong Lady Productions, who put on an acrobatic show called Leap .

Charmaine, who hails from Australia, said afterwards that Cricklade was a beautiful town and she enjoyed performing there.

Nigel Wynne, chairman of the organising committee of the festival said the event had been a great success.

“It was really good, very busy and a lot of fun.

“It is all about the community here. Loads of community groups do well and all the people that come down do enjoy themselves. ”

Ollie Turner, owner of Alternative Drum School in Cricklade High Street and his pupils showcased there drumming skills in performances held outside his shop at the festival.

Ruth Goodfield from Malmesbury was at the festival to support her son Sam who performed in the drum school’s musical showcase.

She said: “It is a really good day actually. It is the first time we have been here but it won’t be the last.”