A NEAR-record number of people turned up for this year’s rock ‘n’ roll-themed Dockenfield Day, encouraged by the fine weather.

The fete was opened by long-standing residents Patrick and Jean Rendell, who also had the difficult task of judging the overall winner of the dog show and fancy dress competitions, with plenty of wigs, air guitars and flares on show.

As well as the usual eclectic stalls such as the human fruit machine, Formula Pig, coconut shy and pole joust, visitors to this year’s event were also treated to Dockenfield band Downstairs at Deano’s, who played a couple of sets during the afternoon and had a great reception.

They will hopefully be back next year to entertain the crowd.

It had been hoped that this year’s Dockenfield Day would be the first to take place on a new strip of land in The Street purchased by the parish council for the enjoyment of villagers.

The new public open space was not ready in time, however, and so the four hours of non-stop fun for all the family commenced as usual on the playing field at Abbotts Cottages.

Other attractions included Mr Giant’s magic show, a bouncy castle and not forgetting the barbecue and the bar serving locally brewed beer – along with the home made cakes and teas stall.

There was also children’s games, races and the traditional tug of war as well as the legendary Dockenfield dog show. All sports and events were free to join in, while the stalls still cost as little as 10p to have a go.