Retro space hoppers, gymnastics and fencing were the highlight of today's Olympic special 'Fun on the Green' event in Lowestoft.

The free weekend-long London 2012 Open Event is a UK-wide celebration of art, culture, sport and everything that makes up the London 2012 Games.

The theme of the weekend was Rise to the Challenge and participants did just that

Tony Gittins, who runs the Sandcastle guest house on Marine Parade and chairs the tourism group, described the space hopper race as a 'resounding success' and added: 'It's gone very well. There have been a lot of people here as well as karate demonstrations, fencing and music.

'We had a little trouble in the morning putting gazebos up in the windy weather but hey-ho, we survived and it has all gone very well.'

The annual summer event is organised by the Lowestoft Tourism Group, an independent body made up of local traders and business owners.

The main arena showcased members of the Waveney Gymnastics Club, the Kenshin Kazoku Kai Karate Club, Great Yarmouth and Waveney Fencing Club and sniffer dogs from HMP Blundeston.

There was also a bouncy castle, funfair games, donkey rides, stalls and a fun dog show.

Pets pooches competed to be named best puppy, most handsome pooch and dog with the waggiest tail and it was judged by Oulton Broad trainer Penny Laverick.

Emily Little, 32, of Lowestoft, brought along her Border Collie, Sandy, and although did not take part in the show she said Sandy enjoyed watching it.

'It's been really fun to watch and I think Sandy enjoyed it more than I did. It's been a great day all round and I'm glad the weather stayed nice for it,' she said.

'I'm all for supporting the Olympics and I think a nice local event like this is just the ticket to promoting what a great place our country is to host the 2012 Olympics.'

An outside bar was also provided by Oulton Broad Leisure's Fisherman's Wharf and The Galley Restaurant and the event was officially opened by Mayor of Lowestoft Tod Sullivan.

The event has helped to raise funds to create a new Flagship Children's Adventure Play Area on land adjacent to The Royal Green, where the event took place, for the benefit of both local residents and visitors to the town.

Details and plans of this were also on display at the event.

• For more information visit www.funonthegreen.co.uk or call 01502 511799.