MUSIC filled Halstead's Public Gardens as a thousand residents flocked to the annual Music in the Park fundraiser.

Labelled bigger and better than ever, the event once again proved to be a highlight in the Halstead events calender.

Now in its 16th year, Music in the Park is the Empire Cinema's largest fundraiser of the year.

Mike George said: “It was a really pleasant evening, with a great atmosphere thanks to a really well behaved crowd and two fantastic bands.

"It was fantastic to see everyone up on their feet enjoying the evening, every year we learn something new and next year will be even better.”

The Empire committee thanked everyone who attended, volunteers who set up and cleared up, shops who sold tickets and gave a special thank you to Andy Baldwin sound and lighting. 

The committee apologised to guests who arrived early, but were forced to leave the park and queue to re-enter. 

Pictures courtesy of Simon Edney.