THOUSANDS of people turned out for the first day of a community music and fun event in Parkstone on Saturday.

The annual Party in the Park, which is a two-day event running on August 29 and 30 on Ashley Cross Green, features live entertainment from Drew Allen, Bump and Hustle, Ekko Band and more, stalls, kids' entertainment, food and beer tent.

IN PICTURES: Party in the Park 2015 >>

Families and groups of friends didn't let the changeable weather stop them as they gathered together to dance along to pop music and enjoy a host of food and drink from a range of stalls which were at the event.

Jane Jones, organiser of the Party in the Park, said: "It just gives me so much pleasure to see everyone from children right up to elderly people having so much fun.

"It just has that family fun atmosphere, with dogs welcome as well. The food stalls are also fantastic, with people being able to buy things like lobster and steak, so there is a real plethora of choice.

"We have also had fantastic support from local sponsors, without whom we would not be able to hold this event."

Fast and Frank from Fun Lovin' Criminals are entertaining guests this evening until the mini festival closes at 7pm. Sunday's headline act is billed as the star of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and American hip and hop and R&B DJ, Jazzy Jeff, who will be on the stage from 5.30pm.