A RECORD-BREAKING number of people from Manningtree, Mistley and Lawford came together for a popular biennial family event.

More than 2,000 people turned out for Family Fun at the Furze, which takes place every two years in Mistley.

The event, at Furze Hill recreation ground, off Shrublands Road, included a giant family picnic, bouncy castles, inflatable slides and children’s rides.

There was a range of entertainment, including demonstrations from dog agility groups, cheerleading teams and dance schools.

Live music was also provided by Fox, Wiggle and Sass, Amber Scott and popular band Keystone.

The event was organised by councillors from Lawford, Manningtree and Mistley.

David Ashley, chairman of Lawford Parish Council, said: “With such terrible weather in the morning as we were setting up, it was hard to know how many people would come along.

“But in the end we had more than 2,000 people - and more than 550 children enjoyed the rides.

“Despite the weather we had a record-breaking number of people.

“The event was held for the first time in 2012 for the Queen’s Jubilee and we then held it in 2014 and again this year.

“It is a joint venture between the parishes. We just wanted to put on a free day for the local people, so they can get together and celebrate.

the three parishes.

“It was a really enjoyable day and we were so pleased that the sun came out as it got going.”

Mr Ashley hopes the event will be held again in 2018, but said more volunteers would be needed to help organise the event.

“I want to say a big thank you to the very small team of people who helped to organised this year’s event.

“It was a real success.”

The family fun day also included stalls with food, produce and crafts from a number of local businesses and organisations.