MORE than three thousand people turned out yesterday for the annual Family Fun Day in Stratford Park.

A highlight of this year’s event was professional football freestyler Daniel Cutting, who impressed the crowd with his tricks and showed why he is the current holder of five Guinness world records.

Also performing on the park’s bandstand were gospel star Geraldine Latty and Bristol’s Renewal Gospel Choir, who’s singers included Vernon Samuels, former Great Britain triple jump star, who gave an inspirational interview about applying yourself to do the best you can. 

Vernon performed at the 1988 Olympics for Great Britain.

Gloucester and Stroud’s Ambitions Dance Group returned by popular demand for a fourth consecutive year, and children participated in a host of games and interactive activities arranged by a wide range of organisations and churches from across the Stroud area.

"This annual free event has become part of the broad festival landscape of Stroud," said organiser Phil Coysh of Stroud-based event charity Ignition. 

"It is fantastic that over 150 volunteers from different church groups and organisations come together from across the town to put on an amazing free event for the community. 

"People are very appreciative and can’t believe that all the entertainment and activities, from bouncy castles to face painting, plus a wide variety of art & craft stalls are all free. 

"It is very unique.”