Community spirit was in full swing today as crowds of families turned out to enjoy the Heartsease Fun day.

The event at Heartsease Recreation Ground, in Sale Road, saw people of all ages enjoying everything from hook-a-duck games to face painting to cookery demonstrations to table top sales. They were also given the opportunity to find out more about groups and organisations in their area.

Karen Reding, who led the organisation of the event with Chris Avey from the Old Bakery Cafe and the charity Mind, said it was great how many people came to take part and it was hoped it would become an annual event.

Seventy-five-year-old Jean Nichols, who was manning the St Francis Church stand, said: 'The fun-day was a really good idea. I think it is really important to have community events like this, especially on a big estate like ours.'

Grant Ewens, 41 and of Woodside Road, had fun learning circus skills with his sons Samuel, eight, and Piers, six, and his step-daughter Jessica, seven.

He said: 'It is really good when you have these events which bring communities together, and it is fantastic how many people have given their time to organise the event.'

The city's lord mayor Ralph Gayton attended the fun-day which he said was a great example of what communities can do if they work together.

The event was funded by the Norfolk Community Foundation and Norwich City Council.

• Is your community planning a special event? Call reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk