The warm weather helped Minster Village Fayre attract the crowds.

Some 500 people made their way to the fifth non-profit-making event when it was opened by borough and parish councillor Ken Pugh in the grounds of Minster Abbey on Saturday.

Attractions included a bouncy castle, children’s funfair, face painting, ice cream van and games such as balance a coin on a lemon, coconut shy and pick a lolly for the chance to win a prize.

Kids and adults from the 7th Sheppey Scouts manned the barbecue while The Heritage micropub served up drinks.

Sandwiches, teas and coffees were on sale.

There were performances by the Sheppey Folk and Blues Club, ladies’ choir Sounds Familiar and singers Fran McGillivray and Mike Burke from London.

There were displays by The Hopscotch Dancers, the Girls’ Brigade Band and belly dancing by Maud Medley and Sylvia Fairbrace of Simarik.

There were also some 30 stalls selling goods from candles to cakes plus a steamroller.

Supported by the abbey, The Gatehouse Museum and Minster Parish Council, the aim of the event is to give a picture of life, organisations and activities in the village.

One of the organisers, Andrew Parr, thanked the Sheppey EMUs for marshaling the event and providing first-aid cover.