IT may have been short-lived, but the summer sunshine finally arrived for the Ainsworth Village Day.

More than 1,500 people attended the event to revel in the scorching heat at the recreational ground, on Church Street.

Morris dancers, samba bands, an opera singer and karate group provided the afternoon's entertainment while visitors got stuck in to barbeques, chocolate tombolas and cream teas.

The gala, organised by the Ainsworth Village Task Force, has already raised more than £2,000 to go towards various groups and charities within the community, including the Scout club, rounders team and local schools.

Treasurer Karen Hall said: "It was a very successful day and we improve each year.

"The weather was absolutely terrific and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and setting up picnics to enjoy the summer sun."

The highlight of the day for the Ainsworth youngsters was getting the chance to meet Winnie the Pooh and friends, who arrived in style to open the gala in a limo.

Karen said: "It was absolutely magical to see the faces of the children when Winnie the Pooh arrived.

"It was out of this world; anyone would have thought a famous pop star had arrived!

"We actually had some difficulty controlling the toddlers!"