Free fun and warm sunshine brought people out in their hundreds in Maryport yesterday.

The occasion was the Maryport Town Council's annual family fun day which offered families free treats including ice cream, face painting and glitter tattoos, fairground rides and drinks.

There was also story-telling and puppets and a bouncy castle and slide to enjoy.

Every school and nursery child in Maryport received a poster at the end of last term complete with tokens qualifying them for the free goodies on offer.

Jacqueline Gartland, of Maryport, was one of a group of 15 adults and children who had come together to make the best of the day.

She praised the council for the event.

"There are a lot of people who cannot afford to get away in summer. This is an inexpensive day out."

Part of another large group was Emma Hindwood of Maryport who, with her friends, made up a group of four adults and 10 children.

"We are enjoying it. I think this is a good way for the council to spend its money."

It was not just Maryport people who enjoyed the treat, either.

Lyndsay Neen, of Workington, was enjoying the day out in the sun.

The fun day was held on the green behind local playground, Shiver Me Timbers.

Councillors were delighted with the turnout.

Stephen Ashworth said: "I don't know how many hundreds are here but it is certainly more than last year."