Date revealed for next year’s Norfolk Day celebrations

Norfolk Day 2018. Holt WI, left to right, Gillian pilgrim, Dawn Rose, Caroline Purkiss, Ann Stredwick, Paula Hewitt.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2018)

Flags were waving in force and communities pulled together for the first-ever Norfolk Day on Friday.

Norfolk Day 2018. Magical Mundesley event at Gold Park in Mundesley. Isabelle Applegate, 10, from Dereham,Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2018)

And due to its success, it will take place on Saturday, July 27 next year.

Norfolk Day Logo (Image: Archant)

The inaugural celebratory occasion saw thousands of people, from babies to the elderly, showing their pride in the county at nearly 300 events.

Newlyweds Lisa and Alan Palmer,31 and 33, from Blofield Heath, who got married on Norfolk Day, July 27 2018, at the Norfolk Mead Hotel in Coltishall. They are pictured with their son Finley. Picture: RICHARD JARMY PHOTOGRAPHY (Image: RICHARD JARMY PHOTOGRAPHY)

Norfolk Day was an idea of the EDP, Norwich Evening News and BBC Radio Norfolk.

Youngsters enjoying the Norfolk Day community fete at Waterloo Park in Norwich. Picture: SOPHIE SCOTT (Image: SOPHIE SCOTT)

It was a chance for people to shout about the great things going on in the county, its varied communities and businesses, charities and organisations.

Participants in a mass cribbage tournament at Norwich City Football Club to celebrate Norfolk Day. Picture: AYNUR ELHAM (Image: AYNUR ELHAM)

David Powles, editor-in-chief of the EDP and Norwich Evening News, said: 'Wow is all I can say after such a vibrant and exciting Norfolk Day. Hundreds of people got behind the day which proved to be a hit across a variety of communities and businesses. Norfolk Day's biggest success was bringing people together and celebrating the best of county life. I am so happy people embraced the idea and look forward to celebrating more Norfolk Days in the future.'

Aspects of daily life from locally-produced food and drink and heritage were on show.

There were discussions on business innovation as well as tackling mental health wellbeing and loneliness.

Families and different generations could take part in different sporting activities and cultural events from live music to crafts.

Traditional street parties, village fetes and strong representations from groups at the heart of communities, including the Women's Institute, brought scores of people together.

And dozens of businesses opened their doors showcasing what they do best as well as publicising Norfolk products.

Chris Sargisson, chief executive of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and one of the Norfolk Day ambassadors, said: 'It is fantastic to see the huge success of Norfolk Day, from the community events to businesses getting into the spirit of the day.

'But for the Norfolk business community, every day is Norfolk Day.

'We all need to capitalise on the brilliant work of today and continue to proactively promote what a great place Norfolk is to do business.'