TUG of war battles, a themed cake competition and egg and spoon races were all on the bill for Newton’s Jubilee celebrations.

Begun with a service at St James’s church complete with a rendition of the National Anthem on Sunday, the festivities in the field next to the church were opened at 2pm by Cllr Steve Tierney.

From there, he went on to judge the cake competition - won by Louise Fox - as well as presenting awards for decorated bicycles and children’s fancy dress.

There were egg and spoon races, sack races, a children’s tea party and a tug of war competition for the adults.

The damp conditions did not affect attendance but the grand balloon release had to be done from the top of the bell tower to give them a fighting chance of staying afloat.

Steve Barclay MP also dropped by to talk to the party-goers.

The evening was finished with a free hog roast and music provided by Roger Williams.

Cllr Tierney said: “The event was fantastic. Far from dampening the community spirit, the rain brought it out!

“Newton is a wonderful village full of brilliant people and my family and I just had the best time!

“The organisers produced a lively day full of fun and frolics, finished up by a delicious hog roast and a massive party. People were dancing in the rain! Just brilliant.”