HUNDREDS of families gathered on a village field for a day of fun, food and music.

The bi-annual Fun on the Furze event was held at Furze Hill in Mistley on Sunday.

The event is organised by members of the three councils of Lawford, Mistley and Manningtree as a community day for residents.

Martin Rayner, chairman of Mistley Parish Council, said: “It was a brilliant day. There were lots of lovely people and lots of smiles, and lots of happy kids.

“We had a variety of things on stage - we had cheerleaders and the Debbie Millar dance school.

“Then we had three music acts in the afternoon.

“There was Fox, Wiggle and Sass who died 40s style music, and Jade Mayjean - she had been on The Voice, a lot of people liked her.

“Then it finished with local band Keystone.”

Fun the Furze was created after the three parishes came together to organise a set of big celebrations for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

This year families were treated to food stalls and entertainment, while children were able to enjoy a climbing wall and unlimited time on the inflatables with a £5 wristband.

For the first time this year there was an inflatable assault course.

Helper Kerry King said: “It was a very successful day.

“Over 1,000 people, mainly families, came along.

“The team were delighted that so many of the community could get together and share such an enjoyable day.

“We would like to especially thank the Air Cadets for the help they gave throughout the day and our local members of St John Ambulance.”