HUNDREDS of people gathered at the Ropewalk in Ross for the Wye Valley River Festival. Helped by the sunny weather the crowds grew throughout the day as participants of all ages got wet during the Water Olympics, cheered at the river animals as they evaded justice and enjoyed displays of military re-enactments.

The finale was a spectacular performance by the Spurting Man which thrilled adults and children alike.

Several years in the planning, the first ever Wye Valley River Festival brought together communities along the river to illuminate the history and magic of this landscape. It got off to a fabulous start over the sunny Bank Holiday weekend in Hereford, Ross and Lydbrook. The fun continues in Monmouth on May 9th.

See this week's Ross Gazette for more pictures or click Buy Photos to see even more from this great day.