THE atmosphere was "electric" at the weekend's Stow Cotswold Festival, as townspeople marked American Independence Day.

Visitors enjoyed a packed-out festival, with dog shows, tombolas, military vehicles and more.

Gardener's World star Rachel de Thame, who had recently moved to a village near the town, also attended and said she just could not miss it.

"It’s been such a lovely day for the family and the children are running around enjoying all the activities and finding some nice treasures," she said. "It’s a glorious day and Stow is just such a lovely town which we’re really enjoying exploring."

The charity event showcased the best of the USA and the Cotswolds, as hamburgers were enjoyed alongside cream teas and stars and stripes flew beside the union jack.

Stow was also marking its friendship link with American town Appomattox in Virginia, which was launched by Stow and District Civic Society.

Other attractions on the day included a mass sewing bee to make a quilt for the people of Appomattox, 52 stalls, a giant charity tombola raising £1,625, an American vehicle display, a rodeo bull, a Stow fire engine, a best-dressed dog competition and a magic man.

Live music dominated the stage and Gloster Gladiators marched through the town centre. The day finished with a square dance in Stow Square with band Silver Bough.

Festival committee chairman Maggie Deacon said: “We couldn’t have done without the fantastic support from local businesses which we hope promotes them and Stow.

"The Civic Society’s fantastic work will no doubt strengthen our friendship link, especially when we send the quilt. The day’s atmosphere and sunshine saw lots of people having a wonderful time and being very generous with donations to our charities.”

An estimated £3,000 was made to help support Stow Disability Group, Springboard Children’s Centre at Stow primary, Sue Ryder Hospice, Leckhampton, and the Sam Pilcher Trust.

See stowcotswoldfestival.com for more.