The thirteenth Goan Summer Festival played out under glorious sunshine.

Just under 2,000 people turned up to the County Ground Athletics Club for the event.

Nelson Carvalho, the event’s organiser, said: “This is basically a festival for Goan culture to be showcased to the Swindon community.

“You’ll see lots of Goans with their friends and families.

“This is the thirteenth year we’ll have had it, we did take some breaks but this is number 13.

“It’s a very successful event, we were expecting over 1,500 people here today, coming in and out.

“It’s so successful because there’s such a wide range of people it appeals to. Not only Goans but their friends and families that they invite.

“We’ve had traditional Goan music, children performing dances, we’ve had four Goan bands and lots of traditional food for everyone.

He told the Adver on Saturday: “We have over 2,000 members and we always try to help our community with whatever issues.

“Everyone is welcome to come, even if you don’t think it’s for you.”

The crowd enjoyed traditional Goan performances and food long into the summer night.

Jose Fernandes, from the Town Centre, said: “I’m really here for the food, but I’m excited to see what the atmosphere is like.

“I haven’t cooked anything at home so the food is what I’m most interested in.”

Sarosh Fernandes added: “It’s a Goan get together, it’s a community event so we like to take part in it and make the event a success. The weather is good, so our expectations are good.

“Last year we had it in a hall so it’s great that this year it’s open air.”

Vanya Batista, owner of one of the drinks stalls, said: “We sell all your normal softs drink but also fallooda, which is basically a milkshake.

“The event’s been running smoothly for the past five or six years.

“It’s so important because it brings all of the Goan tradition together and everybody’s invited.

“Any race, any culture, they’re all invited to try out our style and culture.”