Record crowd for Lichfield Bower festival

The Lichfield Greenhill Bower drew in the crowds with families lining the streets.

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

Organisers said it was a record turnout, with at least 40,000 people thought to have flocked to the historic event.

Bet Colley, organiser of the Beacon Park activities, said: "It has been a record year. The crwod has been absolutely huge.

"Everyone seems to be having a great time. We were a bit worried about the weather after it rained all weekend but thankfully it has stayed dry.

"The event is growing bigger than ever. We have really spread it out and got more attractions than ever before so we are really pleased with how it has gone."

Highlights included the traditional procession through the streets of the city.

The Bower Queen,16-year-old Bethany Daire was officially crowned by the Mayor of Lichfield outside the Guildhall.

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.

There was also a monster truck display team putting on a show at Beacon Park, a dog show and the Company of Horsemen entertaining families.

Live music was performed at the festival throughout the day while there was fun fair for children.

Additional bus services were put on by Arriva Midlands from Armitage, Brereton, Burntwood, Chase Terrace, Chasetown, Handsacre and Rugeley as people flocked to the event.