FAMILIES have taken full advantage of the recent good weather to enjoy events throughout the area.

A fun day at St James's Church, Slater Lane, Leyland attracted crowds who had their pick of games and stalls on Saturday. Youngsters lined up for face painting sessions which saw them transformed into animals and clowns.

An estimated 2,500 people turned up for the annual Longton Fete at the recreation ground on Saturday. The event got under way at Chapel Lane with a colourful procession led by South Ribble Mayor, Coun Jon Hesketh, and South Ribble MP, David Borrow.

Brindle Brass Band and Bootle and District Concertina Band provided the entertainment and the crowds enjoyed traditional fairground attractions.

Longton beavers added a splash of colour dressing up as Pirates of the Caribbean and Laura Hope was crowned fete queen.

The Longton Bad Boyz and The Invincibles won the junior and senior football competitions held during the event.

Adults were encouraged back into education on Saturday during Preston's learning day.

There were taster sessions in everything from hairdressing to PC maintenance and youngsters were kept entertained by balloon sculpting and bird of prey displays.

The event kicked off Adult Learning Week which finishes tomorrow.