RECORD crowds thronged the banks of the River Avon in Evesham for the illuminated precession of boats, the highlight of the River Festival.

Festival organiser Hazel Hanlon said: "It was my birthday Saturday so I think I had the biggest birthday party in the town ever."

Over 70 boats travelled to Evesham to the Festival and Mrs Hanlon said: "It was all absolutely brilliant, the weather was marvellous, the boats looked fantastic and the entertainment was great. I have never seen so many people on the banks as there were for the illuminated procession which always attracts a lot of people."

Councillor John Smith, chairman of Wychavon District Council, said: "It was out of this world. It really lived up to its reputation of the best in the country."

The Town Crier was there to announce the opening of the Festival which included a parade of the best dressed cruisers and narrowboats on the theme "Winter Wonderland," a nautical pets parade, boat handling competition and raft race from Weir Meadow to the Rowing Club.

Entertainment on the Workman Gardens included the Old Rope String Band, Topper, Avonbank Brass Band and a pig roast.

River boat trips on Handsam Too with Heartbeat preceded the judging by the mayor, Councillor Diana Raphael of the illuminated boats which in turn was followed by the firework display.

A boaters breakfast, tug of war, egg contest and fender wanging were held Sunday before Council Smith inspected the Guard of Honour by Evesham Sea Cadets and presented the prizes.