VALE people celebrated the 400th anniversary of the Mop Fair in Evesham last weekend with town councillors opening the event in traditional robes.

Crowds of people turned out to the funfair on Merstow Green, Vine Street and Evesham market square.

The Mop, an annual three-day funfair, marked a special anniversary this year, as it was the 400th year of the Town Charter, which granted the markets and fairs the rights to the town.

As requested by organiser Edward Danter, Evesham town councillors wore traditional robes to open the fair to the public which was well received by spectators.

Mr Danter said he was delighted with the huge turnout. "The event was attended by crowds. It was a shame there was heavy rain on Friday night but overall it was a good turnout for the weekend. I look forward to next year's Mop Fair."

Evesham Mayor Frances Smith said: "The whole event went very well indeed and the councillors and the public enjoyed seeing the robes on show around the fair. We all had a nice enjoyable time."