Sand castles, ice cream and a chance to meet St George and his dragon.

One of Medway’s newest attractions The English Festival came to Riverside Country Park in Gillingham on Saturday.

And, for a change, the thousands of visitors who went along enjoyed some traditional British spring sunshine weather.

A record turned out for the free all-things English extravaganza held on the closest Saturday to St George’s Day which is today.

The festival was divided into four themed zones; the seaside, a village square, the countryside and medieval fun.

Families turned out in force to play games, enjoy donkey rides, have a go at falconry, watch bee-keepers at work and join a good old-fashioned tea party while listening to a live band.

A specially-created sandy beach proved just as popular with littles ones as a day out at the seaside.

Among the colourful characters mingling with the crowds were an English bobby on his Penny Farthing, duelling lollipop ladies and knights of the realm doing battle.

Festival co-ordinator Verne Sanderson said: “This festival has grown with surprising speed. It celebrates what is iconic and what is ironic about England.”

“The turnout was helped with it being the warmerst Saturday of the year so far and the park and ride was very well used.”

Cllr Howard Doe, who is in charge of community events, said: “This wonderfully quirky festival is now in its fourth year. It’s the perfect way for all the family to have a free day out and celebrate St George’s Day."

(blob) More pictures in the Medway Messenger on Friday.