Crowds in Stalham enjoyed a community picnic in the pews today after the rain forced the Diamond Jubilee celebrations inside.

The town's big picnic, which was due to take place at the Recreation Ground and follow with a mini-Olympics, saw dozens of people take refuge from the weather in St Mary's Church on the High Street.

Elizabeth Jackson of Stalham Town Council said although the weather had put people off there had still been a sense of comradery.

She said: 'People have been getting into the Dunkirk spirit and it's been a lovely the amount of people who have still brought their picnics into the church.

'Puddings and drinks have been supplied and people have been bringing their own sandwiches'

Mrs Jackson also praised the efforts of 'generous' local businesses and the church for allowing the big picnic to take place there.

Stalham's Brass Band performed in the church and the afternoon's festivities finished with a short combined-churches' service.

There is an on-going exhibition of local photos in the town hall until Wednesday. The exhibition of Stalham in the past will include many photos not seen before by most residents.

There are also plans to organise a jubilee photographic display later in the year.