Hundreds of people descended on the River Avon for the return of a popular family event.

The Pershore River Festival made a welcome return on Saturday, July 16.

The festival had not been held since 2019 as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Liz Tucker, secretary of the festival committee, said: “We were determined to hold the Festival again even though we knew this year's event would be low key, due to the hangover from Covid.

“It was great to join with the Bell Boat Regatta as part of this year's Festival - bringing hundreds of people of all ages to Pershore for this brilliant annual event.”

The Bell Boat Regatta organised by Andy Train of Fladbury included races for school teams and community teams, including ones for the Wychavon Parish Games.

The main event was no doubt the Bell Boat Regatta.

Organised by Andy Train, from Fladbury, the regatta saw people of all ages and abilities join up in teams of eight to ten to race in bell-boats, a type of large twin-hulled canoe.

There were races for both school and community teams, as well as a race for the Wychavon Parish games

Other attractions on the river included stand-up paddleboards and try-it sessions in canoes and kayaks, organised by Bonkers Activities and the Wychavon Kayak and Canoe Club, based at the Riverside Youth Centre.

Evesham Journal: It didn't all happen on the water, with sumo wrestling one of the many activities festival-goers could partake in without fear of getting wetIt didn't all happen on the water, with sumo wrestling one of the many activities festival-goers could partake in without fear of getting wet

There were attractions on land too, including an inflatable assault course for children and sumo wrestling, as well as displays by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust and guided tours of Avon Meadows Community Wetland.

Refreshments were provided at the Riverside Centre with donations of cakes and scones from Pershore Women’s Institute and friends and family with hot food provided by Pershore Football Club.

Liz added “Pershore's riverside is a lovely setting with the cool of the water and the shade of the trees.

“All in all this was a very happy family day.

“If you would like to join in organising next year's Festival we would love to hear from you.”

Evesham Journal: Pershore Women's Institute provided cakes and scones for the occasionPershore Women's Institute provided cakes and scones for the occasion