THE people of Berkeley enjoyed an afternoon of family fun last weekend.

The Berkeley Summer Festival took place on Saturday in the grounds of the Berkeley Arms Hotel.

The event featured children’s entertainment, ice cream, food, craft stalls, music, and sporting events.

Berkeley Community Trust organised the afternoon's activities.

Trust treasurer Mike Studden said: "It's the best weather we've ever had for the event.

"And we had around 500 visitors.

"Cotswold Male Voice Choir sang a selection of sea shanties for us, which was great.

"And we also had a group of girls who came in, did a fantastic open mic slot, and then disappeared before we got a chance to thank them.

"We'd love them to get in touch so we can say thanks, and perhaps get them singing again at another event."

Once again the festival was paired with a running event, the Castle Dash, organised by the New Berkeley Harriers.

This 5 or 10k run, routed through the grounds of Berkeley Castle, started and finished at the festival, with a medal for every finisher.

"We had 125 people running and we had to close the entries there, as we'd only bought 125 medals," said Mike.

In addition the Hills of Hope challenge 250 charity bike ride, from Lands End to Berkeley, ended at the festival.

It was organised in memory of Heath Barnett and raised money for Children with Cancer UK and the James Hopkins Trust.