Thousands flock in to honour Ironbridge Gorge heritage

A host of attractions were on offer to the crowds joining in the celebrations on Saturday.

Illuminations and a fireworks display were the climax of the day which also saw the landmark Iron Bridge lit up with coloured lights.

At the far end of The Wharfage, the old Severn Warehouse, now the Museum of The Gorge, was also bathed in coloured lights.

Images were also projected on to the side of other historic buildings in the World Heritage Site.

And the crowds were kept entertained with a street market, singers, bands and dancers.

Then, in the evening, a spectacular fireworks display lit up the valley much to the delight of thousands of spectators.

Event organiser Anna Brennand said: "It was a fantastic day. Everything went to plan, we had no problems with the crowd and the weather was very kind to us.

"We estimate we had over 5,000 come along to enjoy themselves. Everyone seemed to have a fabulous time. It's such a nice feeling to see everyone enjoy themselves and to know that everything went to plan.

"The organising team have all got sore feet today but it was worth it to put on such an amazing event."

Mrs Brennand said a new park and ride scheme introduced earlier this year helped with the smooth running of the event.

She said: "The big difference this year was that we had a new park and ride facility. It made a huge difference and made it much easier for people to get to the festival quickly and safely.

"Saturday's event was also the first time we projected a film on the Landmark Trust building, known as the museum gift shop. It was about world heritage and was a great attraction along with all the brilliant performances from the musicians which took place before the firework display. It was great to see so many local people enjoying themselves."

Other highlights on the day included performances from Woody the One Man Band, the Jackfield Brass Band and the Telfordaires who are amongst the top ten barbershop choruses in the UK.

At Merrythought Village, in Dale End, the workshops and Micro Brewery were open for visitors to enjoy hands-on arts activities.

While those looking for a more relaxed time were able to enjoy a scenic river cruise or take a ride on a donkey.

Mrs Brennand added a special thank-you to her co-organiser Traci Dix-Williams.

Activities for the festival continue throughout the week with a programme of guided walks around the Gorge.

Historians will be on hand to inform walkers about the geology of the area, its industrial heritage and it's development over the centuries.

While across the weekend Maws Craft Centre, in Jackfield, will host a craft event where visitors can enjoy its tea rooms and craft shops as well as additional attractions like portable steam engines, traditional craft demonstrations and family games.