THE second Toothill Festival was a whole lotto fun for the hundreds who turned up to the community event on Saturday.

The festival, held at Toothill Primary School and Toothill Community Centre and Church, is supported by lottery group Toothill Big Local, in conjunction with Toothill Primary School, which was holding its annual fete.

Saturday saw hundreds turn out despite the wet weather, with highlights including a workshop from percussion group Stomp, while live acts included Stevie G, Whisper and Pegasus.

Other attractions included a performance of the Toothill Long Poem, drama pieces, the school choir and the recently-formed Community Choir, as well more than 30 stalls featuring arts and crafts and showcasing local community groups.

Organiser Ruth Kiddle said: “This is a great chance for the people of Toothill to get together to have a fun day. The events have been planned to include all ages and showcase Toothill.”

Among the crowds was Councillor Steve Wakefield (Lab, Mannington and Western) who said it was great to see the community come together.

He said: “It has been a good turn out and it is fantastic to see the community come together for this event.

“We have had success with other big events over the years but what is really great about this one is that it is the community doing it for the community.”

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland also visited and helped out with the raffle draw.

He said: “This is a brilliant event that is run by the community.

“It is good to see so many people here and so much going on.”

In addition to the fun, local residents will again be consulted about the priorities for the £1m Toothill has been awarded for the next 10 years from the National Lottery’s Big Local programme.

Resident Timothy Kent said: “I came last year and I think this year is even bigger.

“There is so much for the children to do, which is brilliant. There is a real sense of community in this area and this just proves it.”

For more information about the festival and the £1m grant, visit www.mytoothill.org.uk or Toothill Million on Facebook.