HUNDREDS of people braved the showers to enjoy a packed day of activities and attractions at Stocksfield Festival.

The popular festival returned on Saturday, September 9, at the sports fields next to Stocksfield Cricket Club, attracting a range of talented musical acts as well as some of the traditional features of a village show.

BBC Look North presenter Carol Malia officially opened the festival at noon and the entertainment kicked off with the Stocksfield Stompers.

Broomley County First School Choir and Prudhoe Community Choir were among the groups to perform, while other performers included Ska Tissue, Calum Tordoff and Kismet and many more.

Chris Pentney, former head of the Folkworks programme at The Sage Gateshead and organiser of the Hexham Gathering, introduced all of the bands.

“There was all sorts there for people to do; rides, attractions, lots of vintage cars, all sorts of things, but I think the big thing is that it’s a music festival,” said festival chairman Norman Hooks.

“They are very talented people, all either from Prudhoe or Stocksfield, and the music attracts a lot of people.”

Family activities, such as a climbing wall, archery, face painting and a teacup ride, ensured that the little ones had plenty to keep them busy, while the popular scarecrow competition encouraged some friendly rivalry.

A few heavy showers didn’t deter the crowds, as people headed inside to watch the entertainment or marvel at the tasty cakes on show in the competitive classes.

Businesses selling crafts, books and cakes took up their places, while Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service and Northumbria Police chatted to the public about what they do.

A beer festival held by Stocksfield Cricket Club the night before the festival was a new addition to the event, while the cricket club was open on the day itself to offer extra refreshments.

“It was a very good day,” added Mr Hooks. “There were a few heavy showers, but it was very well attended and it was probably, from our point of view, the most successful one we’ve had.”