Families enjoy fun day out at Winsford's Party in the Park

Winsford’s Party in the Park attracted almost 2,000 people on Saturday and has been hailed a huge success.

A bouncy castle and slide were busy all day

Children painted mini-bird boxes and sunflowers and had their faces painted by the Winsford Academy Camp Cambodia Team.

Pantasy Steel Band played a selection of Caribbean and popular tunes.

Pantast Steel Band entertained visitors with a selection of Caribbean music

Youngsters were fascinated to meet three owls rescued by Lower Moss Nature Reserve.

Children and adults had great fun trying to spot the queen bee at an observation hive brought along by Heart of Cheshire Honey.

Children were intrigued to watch bees at work inside Heart of Cheshire's observation hive

Families brought picnics.

The free event was hosted by the Friends of Winsford Town Park.

Chairman John Malam said: “We couldn’t have asked for better weather and support from the local community.

Colouring activities were enjoyed by children

“All the comments have been overwhelmingly positive.

“After the restrictions of the last two years, it was lovely to see so many people enjoying the park and this lovely green space right in the heart of Winsford.”

Face painting by the Winsford Academy Camp Cambodia team

Winsford resident Ian Daniels, from the nature reserve, was thrilled to share his passion for owls with visitors.

Children were able to see and stroke a barn owl and African spotted eagle owl.

“Ian spent time explaining to adults and children about the importance of wildlife,” said John.

“He is a very knowledgeable man and knows everything there is to know about owls.

Winsford mayor Cllr Joanne Moorcroft and junior mayor Freddie Sant cut the party cake baked by local resident Carol Hodkinson

“I have never been that close to an owl. I was as wide eyed as the owls were.

“I didn’t realise barn owns were such tiny beautiful birds.”

Winsford History Society mounted a display about Vale Royal Abbey.

A bouncy castle, inflatable slide, football shootout and children’s sumo wrestling kept little ones entertained.

“It was just a lovely family day out,” said John. “It makes you realise that some things can be done in a very easy way.

“Most families walked there.

Colourful wiggly worms were wiggled and waved

“They loved to see the owls and the bees here on their doorstep.

“It takes a lot to organise but this is something people may have to travel far away to see."

The party was funded by The Friends, who organise various charity events throughout the year.

“We want to give something back to the community,” said John.

“A massive thanks to the everyone who came and all those who ran stalls.

“We want to make this an annual event and we’re already got ideas about what we’d like to do in the future.”

Winsford mayor Cllr Joanne Moorcroft said: "Thanks to all those volunteers who supported the event, particularly the friends of Winsford Town Park who do a great job all year round.

"Also the Winsford Litter Pickers who, as always, turned up and did a fantastic job.

"I was honoured to be asked, along with Freddy our junior mayor, to take part.

"It was lovely to see all those who came along to the event and spend time in our wonderful park."