THOUSANDS of guests flocked to Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens as a popular festival returned.

The town’s Festival in the Gardens event was back over the bank holiday weekend, giving revellers two days of fun in the sun.

Organised by Elliot Richardson alongside Rachel and Warren Woodcraft, the event had its third outing this year.

Braintree and Witham Times: ON STAGE: The Amy Baker Band performing at the festivalON STAGE: The Amy Baker Band performing at the festival (Image: Warren Woodcraft)

First beginning in 2018, the event was next held again in 2022 after a couple of Covid cancellations.

This year saw 8,000 fans coming along enjoy the festivities and food stalls.

Braintree and Witham Times: FAMILY FUN: Crowds enjoying watching When Rivers Meet on stageFAMILY FUN: Crowds enjoying watching When Rivers Meet on stage (Image: Warren Woodcraft)

They were treated to various exciting activities, from inflatables and rides for children to musical performances.

During the days there were children's shows and entertainment for all the family, with late afternoon comedy run by Braintree Comedy Club.

Braintree and Witham Times: WARM EMBRACE: Missing Andy played their farewell show at the eventWARM EMBRACE: Missing Andy played their farewell show at the event (Image: Ashley Rojas)

The music included One For My Baby, Miss Disco and the farewell performance from Braintree’s own Missing Andy.

Organiser Rachel said: “It was an amazing two days, it was busy and the sun shone for both.

Braintree and Witham Times: DANCE FEVER: Miss Disco wowing revellers during their setDANCE FEVER: Miss Disco wowing revellers during their set (Image: Martin Porter)

“The feedback has been outrageously positive, which was really the cherry on top.

“People just asked for some more toilets, which we knew. We doubled them last year and will likely have to double them again next year.

Braintree and Witham Times: FUN AND GAMES: Billy Banana performs to crowdsFUN AND GAMES: Billy Banana performs to crowds (Image: Sharon Morgan)

“It was just really nice to see how it has grown year on year, and the atmosphere and vibe this year was just really friendly and lovely.

“Everyone enjoyed themselves and the Missing Andy performance was particularly special, they did some signings over the weekend which were hugely popular.

Braintree and Witham Times: FAMILY FUN: The day provided a great day out for everyoneFAMILY FUN: The day provided a great day out for everyone (Image: Warren Woodcraft)

“It was the biggest crowd we have ever had.”

Warren added: “Everyone was really looking forward to its return, and through little advertising and word of mouth you can see how it has grown as pre-sale tickets were up by about 20 per cent.

Braintree and Witham Times: LIVE SHOW: Georgia Crandon was one of many who performed at the eventLIVE SHOW: Georgia Crandon was one of many who performed at the event (Image: Warren Woodcraft)

“We are absolutely planning to bring it back next year around the same time.

“Planning will start at the end of the year, tickets on sale start of next year.

“There were some acts we couldn’t secure this year so we may start getting in some early calls soon.”