SOARING temperatures saw thousands flock to Letchworth GC at the weekend to celebrate the official opening of a park.

Howard Park and Gardens was unveiled by North Herts District Council (NHDC) on Saturday following the completion of a �2.7m refurbishment.

The free event included music, games and vintage funfair rides, as well as the chance to cool down in the park’s centrepiece - a 119-metre paddling pool and water feature.

There was also an opportunity to enjoy refreshments from the newly opened kiosk and visit stands explaining the historical importance of the site using residents’ memories of the park.

Cllr Ian Knighton, NHDC’s portfolio holder for leisure, said: “It was great that so many people were able to make it along and join the celebrations. After all the hard work that’s gone into this, it’s so good to see people young and old enjoying the park, and of course the weather helped to make it a really special day for all the family. Our thanks to everyone involved in the project, not least the Heritage and BIG Lottery Funds which helped make this happen.”

For a gallery of photos from the event click on the link at the top right of the page.