THOUSANDS of people flocked to a sun soaked Newton Show this weekend.

This year's event, which featured an RAF Battle of Britain memorial flight and a helicopter tour, was opened at 11am on Saturday (August 6) in Mesnes Park by a town crier.

Highlights also included a classic car section, organised by The Museum of Road Transport, a motorbike display and a miniature railway.

Entertainment was provided by the Haydock Male Voice Choir, Jen Ashton Dance, Valley brass band, judo display, George Formby Society and the Mucky Mountains Morris Dancers.

Other activities included ferret racing, arts and crafts, live artillery firing on St Aelred's Field, a scarecrow trail on the High Street and birds of prey display.

Chairman of the organising committee, Newton councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron, said: "After a year in the planning, the day was well worth it. Let's hope for such amazing weather for years to come!

"We had thousands there. Some shops on the High Street had to close due to selling out of stock, it was that busy."

He added: "The Battle of Britain flight was truly something to behold and it gave me goosebumps to watch it fly over, in a first for the borough. It was one of the first times the Lancaster had flown in almost a year due to technical issues - it's one of just two left airworthy in the world.

"The Huey helicopter and motorbike display were brilliant too."

The Battle of Britain fly-past took place at around 1pm and there were free vintage bus rides to and from Earlestown Market.

Cllr Gomez-Aspron added: "Local police and the fire brigade attended on the day, and we appreciate their support .

"Also, a massive thanks to our volunteers at the Newton and Earlestown Community Group and the rangers service at St Helens Council, without whom the event couldn't happen.

"I would like to say thank you to everyone - including community organisations and local businesses - that made it such a fantastic day. Special thanks to the Museum of Road Transport and Kenny Jackson for organising the classic car section."