THOUSANDS of people enjoyed fun in the sun at the annual Wanborough Show.

The event, now in its 83th year, took place in the middle of the village and attracted people from across the area.

The show kicked off with a carnival procession through Wanborough. It included displays from the village’s bowls club and junior football club.

John Basevi, the show’s vice chairman, said: “The preparations for this year’s event have gone well. I really love standing in the middle of the field just as everything is about to start – it makes me feel very proud.

“Over the years the festival has changed in many ways but we still try to make it a fantastic family occasion for all of Swindon and the surrounding villages. I’d estimate that today we’ll have attracted between 2,500 and 3,000 people.”

John paid tribute to the event’s committee and volunteers who helped arrange the festivities.

Visitors enjoyed musical performances by Jimmy Moore and Charlie-Anne Bradfield while Kookie the Clown also provided entertainment. Other highlights included a flower show, a classic car display, children’s rides and dozens of stalls.

Jacqueline Bull, who was running her stall Jacqui’s Homemade Sweets, said: “I have been coming here for the past couple of years and it is always a great show to be part of – it is well organised, has a great atmosphere and there are always lots of fun things going on.”

There was a wide selection of refreshments available at the show, including specialist ciders and a hog roast.

James Wilson, 37, who attended the Wanborough Show with his daughters Jessica, 13, and Louise, 11, said: “We always look forward to coming back to this event each year.

“We really love the great sense of community spirit that it creates.

“One of our highlights is seeing the aspiring musicians taking to the stage.”

Other attractions at the event included a puppet show, Wanborough’s Got Talent and a flower competition, while Robert Buckland, south Swindon MP, also held a surgery.

He said: “This show is always a firm fixture in my calendar and I love coming to it.

“It is a great chance to bring so many local organisations together in a beautiful setting.

“It is wonderful to see so many people come and support the event.”