TOTTINGTON’S Big Day Out made itself at home for its first year in new surroundings — tempting about 3,500 people through the gates.

For the first time in its 13-years, Sunday’s do was held at Crompton Meadows, home of Tottington St John’s Cricket Club.

The club offered its Beryl Avenue ground after hearing that the event had outgrown its usual location, Whitehead Gardens.

Organiser Geoff Leach said the “incredible” fun day had drawn the biggest all-day crowd since its launch in 2001.

Live bands The Camdens, Big City Jacks, Oscar Goldman and His Exploding Briefcase, solo singer Ryan Duckworth, The Voice contender Cassie Chan and Tottington Public Band entertained the crowds.

Families also enjoyed traditional and offbeat activities, including pigeon racing, worm charming and egg throwing, and lots of stalls.

Mr Leach said: “We have had around 3,500 people come in previous years but they were coming and going.

"This was definitely the biggest crowd we have kept all day. Families were queuing for 100 yards at both gates.

"It was just incredible. There were cracking acts performing and everyone enjoyed themselves from start to finish.

“All the nearby schools made bunting which was hung everywhere and looked fantastic, and we were blessed with the weather.”

Formerly known as Tottington’s Music in the Park festival, the event was rebranded last year to feature Wallace and Gromit character Lady Tottington in its promotional material.

It was the first year the public was charged to enter due to it costing more to organise than in previous years.

Mr Leach said the proceeds will be split equally between Tottington St John’s Cricket Club and Tottington St Anne’s Village Hall.

He added: “After really outgrowing Whitehead Gardens, the change of location has allowed us to secure the future of Tottington’s Big Day Out.”