THERE must have been many across the area who looked with foreboding at the dull low cloud early on Friday morning; it even rained for a short while in some parts. Not the best beginning for a day dedicated to street parties.

But few let that put them off their stride. At Callow End Village Hall, preparations were well under way by 10am, even though the event was not to begin until noon.

A bouncy castle was being inflated, trestle tables were brought in by trailer and unpacked, and volunteers busied themselves with making the refreshments for later on, while Hedge Roast Catering prepared its fare .

Audra Allard, one of the organisers of the event along with Mary Jenkins and Jenny Neale, said: "We just thought that we should do something that people from the village could come along and enjoy. It's not fundraising or anything, but a way to bring the community together."

It was the same spirit over in Welland later in the day, where the village hall was once again the centre of festivities. The service road outside has been closed off and tables laid out. Children had been given red, white and blue chalks and urged to produce patriotic designs on the pavement outside.

A small team led by Roger Cousins put the event on, with attendees bringing plates of party food to be shared, and plenty of craft activities to keep the younger ones amused.

Julia Haynes said: "I thought the wedding was beautiful, and Kate looked absolutely perfect. The carriage procession was the sort of thing that shows our country at its best."