THE sun shone on Gourock Garden Party and brought out 1,000 people to the community get-together.

There was a wide variety of stalls in the walled garden, face painting, a visit from Owl Magic and a wood turning demonstration.

Youngsters got a chance to try Sumo wrestling and golf and played games for prizes.

A storyteller/singer had all the children joining in with some excellent dancing, former councillor Jim Hunter cut a dashing figure in his full tartan regalia and there was also a visit from Peppa Pig to the delight of tots in the crowd.

Binnie Street Children's Centre enjoyed a double celebration by receiving the Elspeth Riddell Community Award and nursery worker Maria Lamb was presented with the Unsung Hero Betty Maither MBE trophy at the event.

Gala Queen Emma Ann Kane, of St Ninian's Primary, looked resplendent in her robes and carried out her royal duties beautifully.

There were performances from dancers from Diamondz Studio in Greenock and later in the afternoon the Clydeside Singers performed a medley of 1960s hits.

Gourock Heritage Group performed a piece of drama at the amphitheatre and there was more music from fiddlers Clyde Coast Strathspey and Reel Society.

The event was well supported by local youth organisations who helped to make the day such a success, with 27th Greenock Guides manning the barbecue stall and tea room, which did a roaring trade along with the ice cream van.

Various scout groups pitched in, including the Darroch Explorer Scouts who helped put the tents up.

George Irvine, chair of Gourock Garden Party, said: "We had clickers at the entrance and we had over 1,000 in the park.

"It was a very good turnout and not a drop of rain.

"I am delighted."

Mr Irvine was also impressed with the entries of the space model competition as part of this year's theme to mark the 50th anniversary of the moon landing.

He said: "The children all did very well and a lot of thought went into the models."

Mr Irvine wants to thank everyone for their support, donations and everyone who came along on the day.

The event was also given the thumbs up by families and older members of the community.

Lucy Morgan, 30, brought her one-year-old son Luka along and said: "It's a good family day out.

"We've just returned to Gourock from New Zealand, so it's nice to be sitting here in the sunshine."

Gourock lady Helen Fitzpatrick went along with her friend Betty McNab,

Helen, of Rose Crescent, said: "It's been a lovely atmosphere and gives you the chance to meet people you haven't seen in a while.

"We like to come along to support it."

Ashleigh McCall came from Port Glasgow for the day out with her two children Lucas McCabe, three, and Aria McCabe, eight months.

She said: "It's a great event for families and something I used to do as a child."