WEST Street was transformed into a feast for fun-lovers on Saturday as thousands of

visitors flocked to the town to enjoy Fareham's annual gala day.

There were model railway rides, a bike display and giant garden games including snakes and ladders.

Youngsters also enjoyed fairground rides, a bouncy castle and a rock climbing wall set up by the Scouts.

Entertainment came in the form of a samba band, jazz orchestra and soul band from Brookfield School, the Silhouette Majorettes, Stubbington Square Dance Club and the Tricolex Morris Dancers.

Street entertainers included a stilt-

walker, clowns, a magician and his puppet and disco organisers.

For the first time, the event was supported by Ocean FM whose breakfast show DJs David Perry and Pippa Head were broadcasting live from West Street.

Organisers described the event as the best yet with more than 30 community groups taking part and raising much needed funds.

Organiser George Cantrill, Fareham's town centre manager, said: "This is the best gala day yet. We've been busy all day with a steady stream of people and everyone's enjoying themselves."

Opening the event, Fareham mayor Councillor David Swanbrow, added: "This great day is all about focusing attention on the town centre and this brilliant area of open space we have.

"It's an excellent chance to have a bit of fun before the school holidays and also recognises the work done by so many volunteers."

Cllr Swanbrow urged visitors to dig deep in aid of the mayor's charities - The Rainbow Centre and the Elizabeth Foundation.