Picture and video special: Annual Michaelmas Fair returns to Newbury

Rain didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the hundreds of thrill-seekers who headed to Newbury for the first day of the Michaelmas Fair last night (Wednesday).

The annual four-day visit of the fair to Goldwell Park was kicked off in style by the mayor of Newbury, Andy Moore, and mayoress Shelia Moore.

Scroll all the way down to see all the photos from last night

There were plenty of thrills and squeals of delight as Mr Moore and his cadets, Cpl Milla Brereton and Sgt Thomas Frewing, led the charge on some of the big rides on offer this year.

They were joined by new town crier, Steve Wallis, as well as Patrick Burton and Phillip Serill, from the Michaelmas Fair.

The four-day extravaganza at Northcroft will see the crowds turn out in force on Friday to see the grand fireworks finale.

And from the tiniest tots enjoying the helter skelter and the trampolines to the adrenaline junkies flying through the skies in the biggest of rides, there was smiles and laughter from everyone. And the odd toffee apple and bag of candy floss to take home afterwards too.

The fair dates back to the 17th century when farm workers turned up to seek employment, but is now held as a funfair.