THE start of a new and exciting tradition may have just been born as thousands revelled in the first edition of Warminster’s Spring in the Park event on Sunday.

As far as debuts go, Warminster mayor Rob Fryer said the day, which included Morris dancers, maypole dancing, donkey rides, a dog show, a climbing wall, beer tents, craft stalls and games among others, could not have gone much better at the town park.

Cllr Fryer was joined by half a dozen other mayors from across the county, and MP Andrew Murrison, to relaunch rowing boats onto the lake, which proved to be a real highlight.

“It was a tremendous success. To have more than 4,000 people turn up for a truly wonderful day was fantastic,” said the mayor, who was dressed up in a striped boating jacket.

“There was just so much to do. I made a pledge to return rowing boats to the lake and I am delighted that this has now happened.

“It was quite a momentous occasion. Anyone that failed to turn up will soon learn that that was a mistake. As far as debuts go, this will take some stopping. Hopefully it will kickstart a very exciting tradition.”

The mayor was not the only one to praise the event, as many heaped praise on the town council, on its Facebook page, for how well the 11am-4pm event went. Nikki Spreadbury-Clews commented: “An amazing day and so well supported by lots of stalls, things to do and the people of Warminster and surrounding areas, what a showcase of what Warminster has and is. A huge congratulations to Warminster Town Council and all the helpers, a lot of work goes into a day like today and you even ordered the sunshine.”

Malcolm King posted: “Well done to everyone involved, great to see something positive going on.”

Ray Thomas posted: “What a great day at the town park lovely to see so many people attending.”