SUMMER has started in Chard as residents crowded in the streets and parks to celebrate the summer festival.

The events kicked off on Saturday morning with a street market in Holyrood Street.

Chard Town Council and Town Team organised the festival.

Councillor Amanda Broom said: "The Summer Festival is a great opportunity to get involved in a celebration of Chard.

"Previous festivals have been well supported by Chard residents and we are hoping this years will see more people attend."

After the street market, Crowshute Link was closed to allow the parade through. Starting at the Old Post Office car park, the majorettes and pom-pom clad visitors walked through the town to Crowshute Park.

Stalls lined the streets with hot food and other goods for people to enjoy whilst waiting for the beacon to be lit at 10pm.

Classic rock cover band Above Suspicion performed from 7pm.

Rain didn't dampen spirits today (Sunday) as people flocked to Jocelyn Park to enjoy the Party in the Park from midday.

Children were spoilt for choice as rides and games such as teacups, trampolines and inflatable slides were abundant.

Games with water balloons and guns helped accustom people to the potential rain.

Live music and a dog show kept people entertained while the afternoon went on.

One particular highlight for the festival was the spider mountain slide.

Mayor of Chard, Councillor Dave Bulmer, said: "I have utilised my Mayor's budget to finance the spider mountain slide.

"All income generated from the use of the spider mountain will go to this years Mayor's Charities ie Chard Hospital league of friends and Chard First responders.

"I have had help from Cllr Jenny Kenton and Baker with this as they have worked with me to provide this event."

Those not agile enough to climb spider mountain could sit and relax with a cream tea or a cake whilst watching the dog show.

Chard Museum joined the celebrations by holding an open afternoon on Saturday with free entry.

Guests could play guess the artefact and enjoy live music.

District Cllr Amanda Broom said: "The museum team are all volunteers who put their time and commitment into a variety of special occasions to raise awareness of the museum, as well as the day to day running.

"Chard has an amazing and varied history, something which we should all know about & be proud of.

"In the last couple of weeks we saw the great CLOKS play depicting Chard resident’s role in World War 1 & topical for now - the first female Cabinet Minister, Margaret Bondfield was from Chard as well.

"Our talented residents really are something to celebrate - and where better, than the Museum.”

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