Riverside Festival

The perfect end to the school half-term break started with an action-packed weekend at Leicester's Riverside Festival today, and it looks like its one of the most successful yet with sunny weather bringing out record crowds making it one of Leicester's fastest developing local festivals.

From a theatre performance of 'The Wind in the Willows' to the Nanoplex cinema, stopping off for tea in the floating teashop, and listening to jazz on the river as the decorated boats glide by - there is something for everyone at this year's festival.

The festival was opened by Cllr Roger Blackmore, leader of Leicester City Council at 12noon. Cllr Blackmore said: "I've been looking forward to this year's event - it is really great fun for everyone, and a chance for people in Leicester to get closer to the water, and find out about the environment. Educational and entertaining, this mini-festival is very family orientated perfect for half-term. I would urge everyone to come on down to the Riverside at some stage this weekend, particularly now the weather looks set to be warm and sunny".

Entertainment for today included demonstrations of boating techniques and the decorated boat parade on the river, food and craft stalls along Western Boulevard, cycling activities on Bede Park and music on the stage in the park plaza until 9pm.

The fun will continue on to tomorrow from midday with boats on the river, the prize-giving ceremonies, street stalls, story-telling, a performance of 'The Wind in the Willows' at 1pm and live music until 4pm.