OMINOUS grey skies failed to dampen the feel good vibe at what organisers reckoned was one of the busiest Cricklade Festivals over the past decade.

The high street was packed as families made the most of the break in the weather to enjoy one of the biggest free events in North Wiltshire on Sunday.

Music, stalls and street entertainers kept the crowds entertained non-stop from 11am when the festival started with a parade led by Cricklade Town Band.

Vice-chairman of the festival Jo Wynne said: “It has gone fantastically well. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the stage this busy. It has a really good feel to it. Everybody is having a great time.

“The Black Eagles really got the crowd going. We’ve got Lisa Lottie, Matt Ricardo the juggler and lots of stalls.”

The fact the rain held off had been a help. She told the Advertiser: “We have been watching the weather forecast every day, but for us the sun always shines on Father’s Day.”

As well as entertainments on the high street, children’s activities including a puppet show and craft sessions were organised on St Sampson’s School field.

Meanwhile festivalgoers were amused by the antics of Bruce Airhead, Mr Fish and clown troupe Le Navet Bete.

Music continued throughout the afternoon with performances from the Ukey d’Ukes, Fretless and Friends and local singer Chloe Marie.

The festival, which regularly draws crowds of up to 6,000 to Cricklade, is organised by a small group of volunteers through the year, with the backing of extra helpers on the day.

“The community’s great. We would not be able to do this without the support of the local people,” said Jo.

And because the festival is free, the committee has to run special fundraising events to bring in enough cash to stage it.