CRICKLADE went back to the future yesterday for the ninth annual festival – bringing a splash of music and dance to the High Street.

Launched with a parade, led by the Cricklade Band and including some favourite characters from cult hits such as Star Wars and Red Dwarf, the annual event saw community groups and charities setting up stalls alongside hog roasts and live bands.

Nigel Wynne, festival committee chairman, said the event always surpassed expectations.

“This year we have chosen a space and time theme,” he said. “We try to pick a theme every year to let people dress up and have a bit of fun.

“It sounded like a good idea seeing as we have The Clangers back on the television, and there is obviously a new Star Wars film coming out.

“It is already busier than previous festivals we have done with a lot more people in the High Street, and usually we see between 5,000 and 6,000 people coming through. We do our best to put on some good entertainment, with a variety of acts singing and dancing through the day, which we hope makes a good day out for everyone, not just the middle-aged members of the committee.”

Entertainment on the day included acrobatic duo Leap, juggler Rod Laver, and shopping trolley dance and display team Granny Turismo.

Stalls lining the streets included games and tombolas put on by Cricklade Scouts and various community groups.