THERE was dancing in the street as the popular Northbound music festival made a smash-hit return.

Heartbreak Remedy, Kin, Mojo Rising, the Postcard Band, the Reet Hot Chili Peppers and Sugarspun all took to the main stage in Cockermouth town centre on Saturday.

A number of local acts also performed on the acoustic stage.

There was a bar from Tractor Shed Brewery and children's activities with Rainbow Jelly Productions, as well as face painting and food stalls.

Jenny and Paul McDonald, of Cockermouth, attended with their young daughters.

Paul said: “Of course it’s a good thing for Cockermouth. It’s good for businesses and it makes people happy.”

Jenny added: “We’ll be dancing shortly – I like dancing in the street!”

Bridie Nicholson and her friends had come from Carlisle with to enjoy the festival with their children.

She said: “It’s been lovely. There are three of us and three children. We’ve done masking and dancing and there’s beer – what more could you want?”

Her friend, Vicky Thwaites, said: “The weather’s dry so we can’t complain at all. There’s a nice atmosphere as well.”

Jonty Chippendale, of the Toy Shop in Cockermouth, said: “It’s been nice to see the street full of people enjoying themselves. It creates a nice atmosphere.

“It’s about everyone enjoying the street in different ways. It’s not just about businesses – it's about the whole town enjoying themselves in Main Street which is for everybody.”

Emily Garson, of Rainbow Jelly Productions, said the children had enjoyed the activities on offer and they had done “loads and loads” of crafts.

“The kids have loved it,” she said.

The University of Cumbria Clearing Bus was also there.

Becky Scott, student success advisor, said it was a good opportunity to promote the university and give advice to students after A-level results day.

At 9pm the fun moved to the Bush where Mojo Rising performed. Fletcher Christian and Hunters Bar also hosted after parties.

The free event was organised by CN Events, part of the News & Star's parent company Newsquest Cumbria, in partnership with Allerdale Council.

Event manager Anna Chippendale said: "It's one of the highlights in our event calendar and a brilliant chance to showcase the county's amazing talent as well as involving the bars and pubs in the town for our after parties.”