Crowds turn out for Peterborough Celebrates festival

The sun eventually came out for the first day of Peterborough Celebrates

The organisers of a weekend-long festival have described it as "love letter" to a city.

Nene Park Trust (NPT) is welcoming visitors to the third annual Peterborough Celebrates festival at Ferry Meadows and has described it as a "weekend to remember".

More than 20,000 people are expected to attend the arts and culture jamboree.

The free two-day event, funded by NPT and corporate sponsors, offers music, activities and food.

Dancers entertained the crowds on Saturday

Shaun from Wellingborough, who was camping nearby with his grandchildren, said it was his first time at the festival.

"Didn't even know it was on. It's a great surprise," he said.

"It looks fantastic and I can entertain these all day."

Linda Smith of local group Singing for Pleasure said, once she got over the nerves, "we just loved it".

Akeel was enjoying the bands. "A wonderful vibe here. You see people from all communities and backgrounds," he said.

"I've been in the big top, seen some singing and the main stage has played some of my favourite Oasis songs."

Musicians, food and drink as well as fun for all the family at the celebration weekend for Peterborough

Head of visitor engagement, Steph Peachy, said they planned for "an absolutely glorious weekend here in Peterborough."

Some 2,000 hearts have been created as part of an art installation by 50 community groups to show what they love most about the city.

The Big Top tent has been screening films as well as musical and acrobatic performances.

A silent disco and a rock concert took to the stage on Saturday.

The festival runs all day on Sunday.

The free event expected 20,000 people to attend over the weekend

Julian from Stanford had come along with his girlfriend Emma, having attended two years ago.

"It's good family, event with lots for the kids to do, there's arts and crafts, something for everyone," he said.

Rania and Mark from Helping Empower Lives in Peterborough (HELP) charity said the atmosphere had been fabulous.

"We have a long queue and people have been asking us what we do," said Rania.

The charity, which was set up three years ago, supports refugees.