Big Picnic survives the storm-force winds

Traditional events such as a dog show, face painting and drum workshops were enthusiastically enjoyed on Sunday, September 15, and a range of events with a distinctly international flavour were added, including sumo wrestling and Aussie bushcraft for the children and a large, hairy bear, reportedly all the way from Canada.

Project manager Matthew Thomas said: “Despite the horrendous weather forecast, we were thrilled to see people turning out in good numbers and having a really enjoyable time.

“A big thank-you to everyone who gave their time and energy to make it all happen – and thanks for all the ideas for making next year’s Big Picnic even bigger and better.”

A huge selection of home-made cakes was available, along with fried bacon butties and freshly-squeezed apple juice, all free of charge.

Egg and spoon races and a skittles championship added a competitive edge, capped off by an all-comers tug of war.

Mr Thomas added: “Within moments of the final prize-giving drawing to a close, the rain began to fall, giving people just enough time to run for the tractor ride home.”