Streets come alive with military parade at historic Lichfield Bower event

Huge crowds gathered for the procession through the city while there were also street performers, stalls and a party in Beacon Park.

Around 40,000 people of all ages joined in with the festivities to mark one of Lichfield's oldest customs and ceremonies throughout yesterday.

There were a range of attractions during the afternoon as young and old enjoyed the Bank Holiday fun.

The Bower Queen, Savannah Bennett, was crowned while dozens of floats formed part of the procession through the streets of the city. A marching band clad in full military uniform brought a splash of colour to the city streets as members paraded beneath blue skies.

Trampoline club G Force wowed the crowds, Bill Heslop returned with his sheep dog show, and mountain bikers showcased their tricks and skills.

Bower favourites such as the Pat Collins Fun Fair formed part of the entertainment while there was also juggling, a dog show and music.

Some of the most talented performers in Lichfield showcased their skills from a rock choir to brass bands, with acoustic sets and drum workshops.

The Bower is one of the oldest traditions in Lichfield, and extra buses were put on to ferry huge numbers to the annual event.

President Andrew Lock, of the Lichfield Greenhill Bower committee, said: "It went extremely well. I am very proud of all the committee who work so hard to put this on.

"We have got a lot of young new members who have got new ideas.

"It has been a superb day, I have never missed a Bower in my day and it has reminded me of a Bower of old.

"The public has been fantastic."