As temperatures soared into the afternoon, crowds flocked to the annual Chappel and Wakes Colne fete on Saturday to make it the most successful to date.

Hundreds of villagers gathered at Chappel Primary School to watch performances from the Ladies Red Barrows and the East Essex Hunt’s display of hounds whilst soaking up the hot weather.

Now in its fifth year, the fete raised an incredible £5,000 from stalls held by local businesses and charities for their respective organisations.

Organiser Linda Goodchild was thrilled with the turnout.

She said: "It's been our best show ever. Everyone worked so hard and considering the weather forecast thunder and lightning we thought it would be a complete washout. It was a great turn out, and so busy that you couldn't get another car park space in the village."

Hospital Colchester radio assisted with the day and hosted the festivities throughout the day whilst tractors, vintage cars, swing boats, giant tortoises, and a host of stalls packed the field ensuring everyone was kept entertained.