HUNDREDS of people turned out despite the wet weather to enjoy the sights and sounds of this year's Darwen Gala.

The event got underway when dozens of vehicles, floats and walking groups making up the colourful road parade set off from Anchor Road at 12.30pm on Saturday.

Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Maureen McGarvey and her mayoress Mrs Ann Law-Riding officially opened the main gala at 1.30pm in Borough Road Field. The town's MP Janet Anderson also took part.

Visitors were treated to an impressive battle' in the main arena by the Lancashire-based re-enactment group 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry and feats of strength from father and daughter act Tony and Amanda Brutus.

Other attractions included a fun fair, dozens of trade and charity stalls, live music, dance and performing arts displays, a climbing wall, beer tent and children's entertainer and donkey rides.

There was also the traditional Morris Dancing competition held in the grounds of Holy Trinity School and trips to Darwen Tower by Red Rose Land Rover Club.

The fun continued into the night with local live bands including Cherrybomb and The Armadillos.

Street collectors were rattling buckets during the street parade to help raise money to stage future gala.s John Sturgess, chairman of Darwen Gala Committee, said: "The rain didn't stop all day but Darweners are tough so we still had a good turnout, all the acts managed to perform and the event was still going strong into the evening. We'd like to thank everybody for their support despite the soggy conditions."

Darwen Gala is supported by local businesses and Blackburn with Darwen Council. Radio station The Bee were also on hand to help with presenting at the event.

The gala aims to provide a free family day out, a showcase for local talent and the chance for charities and community group to raise awareness and money.