MORE than 1,500 people soaked up the sunshine at Halstead's May Day event.

There were about 30 stalls, a royal present trail, charities, Kala Dowsett's owls and a royal-themed fancy dress competition, which was won by Benn Pickess, with Lily Lane coming second and Leo Bennett third.

Holy Trinity and Richard de Clare primary schools took part in Maypole dancing, before parents and helpers at the event were invited to join in.

Music was provided by students of Ramsey Academy on the bandstand at the event on Monday in the town's public gardens, in Trinity Street.

May queen Kara Fradley and her court Louise Ball and Kia Pitt enjoyed having their hair and make-up done by Abi Cutter of Lipstick & Locks at Julian Cutter hairdressers, in Head Street.

Organiser Linda Hilton said she was pleased to see it so well supported.

She added: "It went really, really well.

"The park was packed.

"The WI had a cake stall and they ran out before the end - there was always a queue.

"About 70 children took part in the trail in the wildlife garden so that was really busy.

"I would like to thank Jim Davis for the PA system and being the sort of master of ceremonies.

"It was a really good, fun event."