THOUSANDS flocked to a 'fantastic' afternoon of free family entertainment at Sunday's Upperby Gala at Hammond's Pond.
The event, organised by Cumberland Council and the Friends of Hammond’s Pond Group, offered a variety of fun-filled activities.
As the sun shone over the park, visitors were treated to performances by the Tanzanian Acrobats, Northern Heights, Razzamataz, Drum Nation and many more.
Community outreach from local charities, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service and Cumbria Police added educational touchpoints to the sunny afternoon.
Cumberland Council Cllr Anne Quilter, Portfolio holder for Vibrant and Healthy Places said it was a 'great success'.
“A huge thanks to all those involved in organising this year’s event and thanks also to the comperes, performers, stall holders, Hammond's Pond Café and the Friends of Hammond's Pond," she said.
Secretary of Friends of Hammond's Pond said it was a 'great day to bring awareness of what is available in our area'.
"To top it off we were over the moon to see everyone enjoying a ride on the miniature railway and the volunteers who have worked hard to get back up and running."
Carlisle’s cherished model railway line, which started in 1936, made its much-anticipated return following many challenging months of not being able to operate due to track issues.
Chairperson of Carlisle's Model Engineering Society, Stephanie Saville, said: "A massive thank you to Friends of Hammonds Pond and Cumberland Council for putting together what was again, a fabulous day for all the family.
"After the very hard work of a core group of members at Carlisle and District Model Engineers Society, we were able to open for public running again.
"This year we plan to showcase more of our steam engines and we may possibly be able to offer very exclusive rides for the public behind one of our steam locomotives, details to follow so watch this space," she said.
Going forward, the railway plans to run a public service every Sunday from 1pm until 3pm until October, inviting everyone to join in.
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