TO celebrate the start of picnic season children and parents gathered in the Old Town Bowl for the latest event in the Little Big Festival.

The event is now in its third year and the sun shone kindly on the crowds on July 1, with spectators saying the day was the best of its kind so far.

“There was a great atmosphere and it was lovely to see so many families enjoying themselves,” said Josie Williams, Commonweal School’s community arts development officer.

“We had some terrific performances and notably three solo singers all aged seven who were pitch perfect.

“Big thank you to Daisy Saunders from Drove Primary School, also Joey Pugh and Ruby Barnett from Lethbridge, you’re simply the best.

“It was also heart-warming to see the fruits of our labour, with two ex-Commonweal students running their own companies.

“They are The Kitty Langan Studio of dance and music, and Natasha Griffiths, a teacher at Lainesmead Primary School, who runs their dance club.

“We work closely with Lethbridge Primary School and have a fantastic relationship with them.

“Some of our Year 9 students run dance clubs at the school and these too were showcased.

“Tracey Owen, the community officer at Lethbridge, ran a homemade cakes and drinks stall and sold out.”

The event, which is part of Old Town’s Little Big Festival, is an opportunity for children to show their talents.