THOUSANDS of families packed out Cirencester’s Abbey Grounds to enjoy a day of free, fun-filled jubilee frolics.

And the community event to mark the Queen's diamond jubilee on Monday proved so successful that residents have called for the town’s annual carnival be resurrected next year.

Spectators stormed Brewery Court at 12noon when Cirencester’s jubilee family launched proceedings and led the town in a procession by horse-drawn wagonette.

More than 4,300 people then flocked to the grounds where an eleven-hour action-packed extravaganza kicked off with a host of gymnastics and dance displays.

Families enjoyed a bevy of games, activities and 17 stalls dotted around the Abbey Grounds and a mini pageant starring townsfolk in traditional costume explored Cirencester's history dating back to its Roman origins.

A fancy dress competition saw patriotic residents donning homemade costumes ranging from the Duchess of Cambridge to Queen Victoria.

Crowds swelled during the evening when entertainment included a variety of local acts at the bandstand followed by a rousing Last Night of the Proms by Cirencester opera singer Maria Jagusz, who led event-goers in the national anthem.

The evening ended with alderman Sandy Price lighting a beacon in Baunton Lane.

Six homeowners in Stratton opened their gardens to the public on Tuesday as part of the jubilee festivities and to raise money for Cirencester Good Neighbours befriending scheme for the elderly.

Shirley Alexander, of organising team Cirencester Sparkles, was overwhelmed with how successful the celebrations had been and thanked the hundreds of volunteers and donations totalling more than £18,000, which meant the community could come together to celebrate the significant occasion.

"Everybody had a fabulous day and I'm absolutely bowled over with how well it went," she told the Standard. "After months and months of preparation and despite some setbacks, we're delighted with how many people chose to come out and get involved.

"Every aspect of the day was wonderful and it was amazing to see so many families enjoying themselves."

She was thrilled with one reveller's comment that "community is coming back to Cirencester".