Organisers had to frantically find a replacement stage to launch the show after the bandstand in Oakhill Park, Accrington, was burned to the ground nearly ten days ago.

The temporary staging was placed in the front of the bandstand, covering the charred mess, so as not to spoil the day.

Thousands flocked to the park for the event yesterday afternoon, with many sitting on the grass in the sweltering sun, enjoying the music.

Different sections of the community were having a good time alongside each other as the event passed without a hint of trouble.

Entertainment started at 1pm with a DJ. A few local bands and upcoming act Bushcraft from London appeared before the bigger names took centre stage.

Heatwave, a popular 80s soul band, and Stereo Nation, one of the country's leading bands of Indian origin, thrilled the crowds with their music.

Nigel Green, marketing and events organiser at Hyndburn Borough Council which organised the event along with the Mid Pennine Arts Group and Lancashire County Council, said: "From the problems with the bandstands last week, it has been a fantastic day.

"The event was hanging in the balance because we were short of a stage. We had to put a few calls in to try and get one at such short notice.

"It didn't leave us with much time, but we managed to find one. It was stressful week.

"But the day was fantastic and made all the hard work worthwhile."

Naushad Surve, of Mid Pennine Arts, said: "The event has been a success and is testament to the hard work of the voluntary sector and the enthusiasm the people of Hyndburn have shown over the years."

The event was funded by a total of £16,000 from East Lancashire Together, Arts Council England, Community Champions and the Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Community Voluntary Sector.