MORE than 1,500 people came out to enjoy the Hatch Warren Summer Festival on Saturday.

Hatch Warren and Beggarwood Community Association (HWBCA) hosted its annual Hatch Warren Summer Festival on Saturday with around 2,000 people, including the mayor of Basingstoke Cllr Paul Frankum and Deane and the town’s MP Maria Miller, coming out for the day.

More than 65 stalls featured at the event, held in the fields near to the association-run Hatch Warren Community Centre, in Long Cross Lane. This year was the third in which the festival has been held.

Karen Coomber, chairman of the centre which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, said: "It was a fabulous afternoon, with people literally pouring onto the fields, to enjoy fun, laughter and entertainment, with completely free entry - along with glorious sunshine - for all.

"Massive thanks goes to the main sponsors, Simmons and Sons, Bellway Homes and GAME, not to mention the many businesses in the area who gave generously to our tombola also."

A total of 51 volunteers helped out on the day to get the Festival up and running, to help manage stalls and events and to assist clear down.

Mrs Coomber added: "We are so thankful to those people who gave their time and energy on such a hot day for the enjoyment of our community."