MORE than 400 people basked in the summer sunshine at this year’s third annual Newent Big Lunch.

Newent Lake was packed with picnickers and those who went along to provide entertainment including music, dancing and games.

This year’s theme "Hoedown" – a lively folk dance – saw people of all ages from young and old take part and there was country and western music from David Blick’s band.

Further music from the English Sisters and Rosita, as well as poetic interludes from Sam, the MC, kept everyone entertained all afternoon. The Strawberry Hill Dancers also attended.

The stalls and activities, provided by local traders and groups, were very busy especially when Onion Ed made his usual appearance to support the event and to remind us that this year’s Onion Fayre is on September 10.

An event spokesman said: "There has been tremendous support from the people of Newent and surrounding areas both with the attendance and the local traders who kindly donated prizes for the raffle.

“Also thanks must go to the organisers at the Voice of Newent for all their hard work in setting this event up and to Newent Initiative Trust, the Town Council, GDR Solutions (First Aid) and Glebe Chapel for their support."

Around £150 was raised for the Newent Dolphin Gateway Club which is a youth club for adults and teenagers with a learning disability.

Among other activities were an obstacle course, scavenger hunt, farm animals, stocks and face painting.