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Thousands attend Dartford's Big Day Out festival at Central park

Thousands of people enjoyed tribute acts, fun fair rides and entertainment as part of a town’s annual Big Day Out.

The free event in Dartford’s Central Park in Dartford last weekend (July 15) included performances from the cast of DAODS Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the Kings of Dhol and America’s Got Talent star Tom Ball.

Thousands enjoyed the music at Dartford's annual Big Day Out event. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography
Thousands enjoyed the music at Dartford's annual Big Day Out event. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography

There was also live music from tribute acts to Madness, Take That and Spice Girls.

As well as music there was plenty to see with a steam rally of historic and vintage vehicles.

While for the kids there was a special Kids Zone in the Outdoor Theatre, roaming dinosaurs, Punch and Judy and an appearance from Channel 5’s Milkshake presenter David Ribi.

There was even an appearance by the cast of Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society’s production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the famous flying car.

This year also saw the addition of the Big Chill Out on Sunday, where live music, food stalls and rides remained from the previous day, with the addition of a free cup of tea for visitors to enjoy.

Cohesion Plus helped provide the entertainment. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/Andy Barnes Photography
Cohesion Plus helped provide the entertainment. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/Andy Barnes Photography
An appearance by Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography
An appearance by Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography
Roaming dinosaurs pleased the youngsters. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography
Roaming dinosaurs pleased the youngsters. Pics by Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography

Leader of the Council Jeremy Kite, said: “After last year’s scorcher we were so pleased to see crowds return to Central Park for the second-ever Big Day Out.

“It was a fantastic day and it was brilliant to work with so many different organisations to make this whole weekend possible.

“It’s really important that our communities have every opportunity to come together at events like this.”

And he said that the element of free entry and vouchers for food stalls and rides was an important factor in the day.

“We didn’t want cost to be a barrier to anyone and so worked hard to ensure a packed programme that everyone could enjoy without having to put their hands in their pockets,” he added.

“There’s lots more to come this summer. Dartford Pride is this weekend, and we’ll be announcing our Outdoor Cinema screenings very soon.”

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