SUNNY weather brought the crowds out to the gala open day at a Malvern church on Saturday.

The event was organised by Rev Clare Griffiths of St Mary's Church, Sherrards Green, who was delighted with its success.

"It's an annual fundraising event," she said, "but I also wanted to make it a way for the church to reach out into the community."

And it succeeded brilliantly, with people flocking to the chuch all day to relax, have fun and enjoy the attractions.

Among them was a fire engine from Malvern station and its crew, a big hit with youngsters who were fascinated by the appliance and all its equipment.

A limo filled with balloons was provided by Hollands Funeral Service, and people were challenged to guess how many there were, with a month's family pass to the Splash as the prize.

A barrel organ provided cheerful music all day, while Bangers the Clown - otherwise known as Andy Ryder - entertained young and old alike.

There was face-painting, a bouncy castle, and a barbecue, and people lined up at the stocks, where they had the chance to throw wet sponges at Rev Griffiths herself.

And charities such as the RNLI, Guide Dogs for the Blind and the League of Friends of Malvern Hospital, among others, set up stalls with an assortment of goods for sale.

"We were really lucky with the weather," she said. "It wouldn't have been nearly such a success if it had been wet."

On Sunday, July 8, the church will be holding a pet service, in which people can bring their furry friends to be blessed.