It's an event which just gets bigger every year

The eighth annual St George’s Festival in Lytham set out to be the biggest yet.

And with record crowds flocking to each event, that noble ambition seems to have come true.

The raising of the flag of St George at Charlie’s Mast on Wednesday marked the traditional opening of the Festival.

Saturday saw the town come together and everybody embracing the English spirit for the now traditional parade through the streets of Lytham, including brass bands, circus acts and vintage cars, while there were prizes for the best floats, walking groups and best dressed individuals.

The day was rounded off with a black tie gala dinner in the Grand Marquee, starting with a rendition of The Beating of the Retreat by the Band of the Royal Armoured Corps, before a five-course meal, live music and an auction.

Yesterday saw a family fun day on The Green, which had fairground rides, craft stands, classic cars and live music from 11.30am to 4pm.

Beneficiaries of the Festival this year are ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Trinity Hospice and Brian House and the Love Lowther campaign to refurbish Lytham’s theatre.

Festival chairman Bob Gallagher said: “We have been amazed by the attendance this year, despite the bad weather.

“We have surpassed all our previous records and at the family fun day we must have had an attendance of more than 2,000.

“The event gets bigger and better each year thanks to the support of everyone.”