Thousands flocked to Wootton Park, near King's Lynn, today for a picnic in the park to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

The park basked in glorious sunshine when the event kicked off at 1pm and celebrations continued under overcast skies until 9pm.

Families brought their own chairs, picnics and blankets and soaked up the atmosphere and sun as they sat and chatted to those around them.

There were fairground rides, stalls, a dog show and performances from nearby schools at the free event.

Local bands kept the masses entertained throughout the afternoon and into the evening. They included Jimmy Rockit, Martian Folly, Jesse's Ghost, Genuine Fake, the Dawson Girls and a Robbie Williams tribute act.

South Wootton resident Alison Manning, who donned Union Jack sunglasses and flag, thoroughly enjoyed the event.

She said: 'It's been a superb day from start to finish. I've come here with my husband, children and grandchildren and there has been something here for everyone.

'It's great to see so much community spirit for this special weekend. I think there is a lot of support for the Queen here with Sandringham just up the road.'

North Wootton resident Sandy Jones added: 'It's been a really nice day. It's been fun for all the family and it has been great to come to an event which brings everyone together.

'I would love to see this become an annual event because it's been a lovely day out and everyone has been so happy mingling together.'

There was also a special performance in the afternoon by Maltese singer Sophie Debattista who represented her country at Junior Eurovision 2006 and will perform at this year's Festival Too in Lynn on July 6.

Following her performance she tweeted: 'What a blast! Lots of people enjoyed our performance and I'm so happy at the moment. Thank you King's Lynn.'

There was a raffle drawn at 6pm and prizes included a pamper and dining experience at Knight's Hill, a round of golf for two people at Middleton Golf Club and �100 to spend at ASDA stores.

Anita Howard, one of the event organisers, said more than 6,000 people had attended the event and thanked the Wootton Park Association for allowing the event to take place at the park.

She continued: 'It's been fantastic to see so many people come out and we can't thank them enough for doing so because without them, this event simply wouldn't happened.

'We must have done something right as people have kept asking us if we will do it again next year and make this an annual event.'

She added: 'Thanks must also be given to our committed volunteers who were planning and working behind the scenes for a whole year to make this a great summer celebration for all the family.'