In pictures: Downpour fails to dampen spirits at Canal Day and Folk Festival

*CLICK THE LINK ABOVE TO FLICK THROUGH A GALLERY OF PHOTOS FROM CANAL DAY AND THE FOLK FESTIVAL*

The bad weather failed to dent people’s enthusiasm as families cheerfully got wet to enjoy the event’s attractions.

Free boat rides, stilt walkers, plus charity and market stalls kept visitors happy – though the rain forced the cancellation of some of the planned entertainment.

Live music sessions were called off, dance displays were abandoned, and the town’s Trafalgar Day Parade hosted by Banbury Sea Cadets fell victim to the weather.

Town mayor Shaida Hussain said: “I was impressed with everyone’s spirit in such adverse conditions.

“The weather turned against us but people were amazingly cheerful and insisted the rain wouldn’t ruin their day.”

While outdoor events were badly hit, the third part of the weekend, Banbury Folk festival went swimmingly, having started on Friday.

Organiser were delighted with the response to the main concerts at the GF Club and other venues around the town.

Sunday’s event was able to go ahead after Cherwell District chose to start work on Castle Quay 2 after the much-loved Canal Day had taken place.

A spokesman said they would be on site in the weeks that followed.