IT has been a great start to Wyre Forest District Council’s summer events calendar with folk turning out in numbers whatever the weather.

Heavy rainfall failed to put off families from enjoying a Right Royal Do in Brinton Park to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday last week.

Hundreds came together to celebrate the Queen’s special birthday with gazebos, deck chairs and their picnic hampers for the day.

The rain failed to dampen the spirits of those taking part in the parade which included local military service personnel, community groups, Guides and Scouts. BBC Hereford and Worcester’s Malcolm Boyden and Nina Guptar acted as comperes, chatting to local people, including those who were also celebrating their 90th birthday this year.

Julian Richards led the flag waving crowd for a rendition of God Save the Queen who were then treated to songs from musicals and shows.

Thousands also turned up for the council’s annual Rock and Roll Party in the Park in Stourport and enjoyed a great day of entertainment and enjoyment in brilliant sunshine.

Around 30 classic cars, 15 to 20 classic motorbikes and mopeds came down to the riverside to show off their exhibits. There was plenty of live music from the Hayriders, the Fireballs, Debra June and the Rockin Tunes and top DJ Guy Roles.

Visitors dressed up in the original 1950’s clothing, and quiffs and glamorous hair styles added to the atmosphere.

Councillor Sally Chambers, cabinet member for health, well-being and housing, said: “A lot of hard work goes in to organising events, and I am delighted local people are turning out in such numbers, whatever the weather can throw at us.

“Everyone worked so hard to make a Right Royal Do a fantastic day out for families just a week after the rock and roll party in Stourport.

“I have never seen the riverside so busy as it was that day, a combination of glorious sunshine and a fabulous event made it a very special day.”

Preparations are now underway for the council’s series of Bands in the Park events.

The Stourport Riverside Bandstand events will be held on July 3, 10 and 17, between 2.30pm and 4pm, while the Kidderminster Brinton Park Bandstand events will be held on July 24 and 31, and August 7, 14, 21 and 28, between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

The Bewdley QEII Jubilee Gardens events will be held on August 7 and 14, between 2pm and 4pm.

The popular Country and Western Festival at Stourport Riverside will take place on August 20 and 21, offering free entertainment for all.