THE first Westbrook Big Party proved to be a success after around 1,800 visitors descended on the fair at Gulliver's World.

Organised by the Westbrook and Callands Communities Association and hosted by the theme park in Old Hall on Friday, June 17, more than 25 different organisations set up shop in front of the stage with productions from St Philips’ Choir, Northern Starr dancers and Viscaria Morris Dancers.

From free compost being dished out by the council's recycling team to access to the Burtonwood Heritage Centre, there was plenty for guests to enjoy.

Chairman of the Westbrook and Callands Communities Association, Alan Guthrie said: "Following an official opening by the mayor and his wife, it was great to see so many proud parents and grandparents enthusiastically clapping their children.

"On the indoor stage, Ellie Dibben who despite being really quite ill gave a bravura performance.

"This was loved by especially the children who were singing and dancing by the stage.

“We’re very grateful to Gulliver’s who were extremely helpful in making our event a success.

“They welcomed working in partnership with us and we look forward to doing more with them in the future.”

A number of the rides stayed open into the evening so thrill-seeking guests could enjoy them for free while wannabe strikers took part in a penalty shoot-out against Cromwell Athletics’ finest.

Julie Dalton, director of Gulliver’s theme parks, added: “We’re all for building a sense of community here at Gulliver’s and we were more than happy to support this free event for our local communities by allowing them to use the theme park as a venue.

“It was a wonderful evening and really great to see so many local people come out to support the group’s work - and the weather was kind to us too!”

The Westbrook and Callands Communities is an association set up by residents keen to create a better sense of community.

To find out more about their work, visit the Westbrook and Callands Communities Facebook page.