THE sun shone throughout this year's Preston Riversway Festival and the thousands who attended the event seemed to enjoy every minute of it.

Organisers heralded the festival a huge success with an estimated 30,000 people descending on the docklands area over the weekend to enjoy a thrilling line-up of events.

As part of Sea Britain 2005, a national celebration of the 200th anniversary of Nelson's victory at Trafalgar, more than 100 boats including the 76ft yacht, the Greater Manchester Challenger, sailed into Preston for the two-day event.

Opened on Saturday by the Mayor of Preston, Councillor Bhikhu Patel, attractions included birds of prey demonstrations, a family barbecue, bouncy castle and fun fair as well as parachute displays, battle re-enactments and a medieval fair.

Throughout the day people gathered for brass recitals from the Pemberton and Longridge bands followed by an illuminated boat cruise in the early evening topped off with a fantastic fireworks display.

Even local businesses got into the swing of things with a champagne reception at the Bowker BMW docklands dealership, for invited VIPs and civic dignitaries including Sir Tom Finney, Coun Patel and Preston North End star Paul McKenna.

There was a serene feel to the festival on Sunday when 300 people gathered in the morning for a multi-faith service of songs of praise at Navigation Way followed by a morris dance display.

Police estimate 30,000 people attended the event, during the two days, and said no major incidents took place.

Coun Patel said: "It was a wonderful weekend which showcased Preston as the city it is. Everyone appeared to have a wonderful time and the event was very much enjoyed by our visitors from Nimes who came here to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Preston's twinning with the French town."