A FESTIVAL to celebrate the Mere and the people of Ellesmere was held in the town at the weekend.

Merefest gave residents and visitors the opportunity to visit the farmers’ market, have a go at archery, lantern making and pond dipping, watch a falconry display and enjoy the live music.

The event, set up by the Meres and Mosses Landscape Partnership Scheme, culminated with a lantern parade which weaved through Cremorne Gardens alongside the popular giant puppets.

Organiser Luke Neal said: “Merefest is about raising awareness of the special landscape of the meres and mosses and the lantern parade was a fantastic way to finish the day.

“The festival is run on donations and support from local businesses and the community. Any donations will go towards running Merefest next year.”

To donate, text NEWT25£ followed by the amount you wish to donate. For example: NEWT25£10