Around 5,000 people flocked to a 'celebration of all things Dereham' with a few special Ukrainian twists.

Dereham Day, held on May 13 for the second year running, has been hailed as a huge success.

Dereham Times: One of Dereham Day organisers, chair of Friends of Dereham Memorial Hall, Tim CaraOne of Dereham Day organisers, chair of Friends of Dereham Memorial Hall, Tim Cara (Image: Trudy Jordan)

Event organiser and chairman of the Friends of Dereham Memorial Hall, Tim Cara, said he was delighted with how the festival went.

“The return of Dereham Day was a truly wonderful event,” he said.

Dereham Times: Dereham Day returned to the town on May 13 - which saw people from across the town come together and celebrate DerehamDereham Day returned to the town on May 13 - which saw people from across the town come together and celebrate Dereham (Image: Trudy Jordan)

“We are all really grateful to the armies of volunteers who made it possible by giving up their time and working so hard.

“There was a fabulous turnout by the people of Dereham, a lovely atmosphere, which was relaxed and happy.”

Dereham Times: A petting zoo was held during Dereham DayA petting zoo was held during Dereham Day (Image: Trudy Jordan)

Travel to and from the celebration was helped by Mid-Norfolk Railway, which ran six free packed-out trains between Thuxton and Dereham through the day.

Younger visitors were able to meet furry animals at a petting zoo, while adults tried their hand at axe throwing and rowing machines.

There were local charities and emergency services on hand including the Norfolk Rivers Trust and the Gressenhall Environment Unit.

Dereham Times: Mid-Norfolk Railway held free transport for residents on Dereham DayMid-Norfolk Railway held free transport for residents on Dereham Day (Image: Trudy Jordan)There was a showcase in Dereham Memorial Hall featuring acts including the Ukraine Voices.

This group performed Ukrainian songs and poems and read testimonies of Ukrainians living in Norfolk.

The event was opened by Holly Steward, a local youngster known for her environmental activism and befriending of Ukrainians - after she was nominated by readers of this newspaper.

Dereham Times: Stalls being hosted on Dereham DayStalls being hosted on Dereham Day (Image: Trudy Jordan)

Paul Sandford, landlord of the Railway Tavern, who helped organised the event, said: “An awesome turnout, the weather was kind to us but it could have been a bit warmer. I just wanted to say thanks to all exhibitors and our main sponsor Thurlow Nunn.”

Mr Cara said he was now taking time to catch his breath but said Dereham Day would be back in 2024.

Dereham Times: Emergency Services also took part in Dereham Day Emergency Services also took part in Dereham Day (Image: Trudy Jordan)