HUNDREDS of people basked in summer sunshine on Saturday at the second Verdin Park Music Festival.

The community celebration was organised by Northwich Town Council, and hundreds of people flocked to the park to enjoy a picnic, singers and musicians.

“It was fantastic, and for me the highlight of the festival was seeing local families coming to Verdin Park, from children to old people, and enjoying themselves, and there was a proper family atmosphere,” said town mayor Clr Alison Gerrard.

“The whole point of the event is to offer something back to the people of Northwich, and for them not having to worry about being able to afford it.

“By making it free there is no pressure on people to spend money in these times of austerity.

“I would say there were about 500 people there, and I hope the festival will get bigger and better every year.”

The headline act was a Tina Turner tribute, and a fireworks finale closed the festival.

It is the second Verdin Park Music Festival arranged by Clr Gerrard after the successful Proms in the Park events held during her first term as mayor in 2011 and 2012.

Acts included Vale Royal Drums Corps, Dee Sign Choir, country singer Steven Doyle and Wayne Storey.

On the Guardian Facebook page, the event seemed to split residents.

William Webb said: “I thought the very loud fireworks were unnecessary and a waste of money.”

But Andrea Konca added: “I loved it, beautiful day, great atmosphere and lots of families enjoying themselves.”

Sarah Turnbull said: “It looked and sounded great, wish it had been advertised a bit more though. I live very close by but only found out about it the night before otherwise would he planned to be there. Hope they do it again next year!”