BROMYARD residents came out in force to support a myriad of Golden Jubilee activities organised by the town council on Monday.

About 200 townsfolk followed John Everett and The Red Dragon Jazz Men from the Square to St Peter's Church, where a special thanksgiving service was given by the Rev Graham Sykes.

Despite lashings of morning rain, children resolutely queued to have their faces adorned with Union flags, butterflies and as Spiderman while parents held umbrellas over them. As if to encourage a variety of performances given on a covered stage on Public Hall Green, the sun came out and visitors continued to arrive.

The Red Dragon musicians kicked off the performances and were followed by the St Peter's School choir and Conquest Youth Theatre, who acted out self-penned sketches representing changes throughout Queen Elizabeth's long reign.

Organiser and town clerk Mike Cresswell said: "The pageant was very good. A lot of thought went into it and it picked up a lot of things that had happened in 50 years. It made you realise how long ago the Queen came to the throne."

A line-dancing display, skateboard demonstration and fancy dress competition also took place along with stalls, refreshments and very popular bouncy castle.

Summing up the events, Mr Cresswell said: "Today has been absolutely amazing. This morning the church service was incredible. I walked in and there were so many people I couldn't believe it. It was packed.

"The skateboarding display was also very good. They had quite a number of ramps and half pipes. There is a lot of talent among the children.

"What I hope is that those who were here will remember the day and what we did and perhaps keep it going."

A dance and pig roast in the evening provided a chance for people to wind down from the day's excitement with live music provided by local band Running on Empty.