More than 4,000 people attended the Highland Gathering in Corby Old Village yesterday to see 100 dancers, some from as far away as Canada, taking part in the All England Highland Dancing Championship.

A record number of pipers took part in this year's event – with more than 400 bandsmen in the massed bands parade down The Jamb.

And revellers had lots more to keep them entertained including a fun fair, side shows and live music, with appearances from Doozer at the Village Inn and Dirty Money at The White Hart.

Highland Gathering organiser Mark Pengelly said: "It was absolutely brilliant. The sun came out and we had more than 4,000 people there.

"The Highland Gathering is just a great day out for the family. It is a celebration of Corby's culture and heritage and next year we are hoping to once again make it even bigger and better."

Kay Hallett, 48, of Coleridge Way, was at the event with her daughter and grandchild.

She said: "I was born in Corby and often come to the gathering. I think it would be a very sad day if it stopped because it is a Corby tradition and it reminds us where we came from. We absolutely love the bagpipes and Highland dancing."

Marion Grkinic, 48, of Thornton Avenue, Corby, said: "I have been coming to the event ever since I was a little girl. Everyone always comes along to support it and they always enjoy it. It is a great day out."

Thousands of Corby residents also turned out for the Corby Carnival on Saturday to watch the procession of floats.

Carnival committee member Terri Meechan said: "It was fantastic. It is the biggest turnout we have had yet. The rain didn't stop people and we had a couple of thousand visitors who all enjoyed the day."

Some of the groups in the parade included Glendon Phoenix Marching Scout Band, Corby Cheerleading Academy, St Neots Majestic Majorettes, Katrina's School of Dance and the Corby Bombers Basketball Team.