THOUSANDS attended a family fun day highlighting the impact made by the vicar in a New Forest village just one year into her role.

Last year, the job avert for the vacant Pennington vicar position said the church was looking for someone with "new ideas to take us forward in our vision and help us make relationships with the community".

On Sunday, the village saw residents come together to enjoy a day of activities and events.

Reverend Rachel Noël, chair of Pennington Community Events, together with vice chair town and district councillor Andrew Gossage and their team organised the fun day on the Common, with more than 2,000 people attending.

Volunteers and community groups from across Pennington worked together to make it a day to remember.

Town and county councillor Michael White, who was head judge at the dog show, said "It was great to see so many of the people of Pennington coming together and enjoying a fabulous day."

Resident Sandy Negrescu added: "It was brilliant to see everyone, young and old, out on the Common.

"People reconnecting with other locals that they hadn't seen in years. A super day, so much fun with all the family races."

Berni Clayton-Smith and pupils from Pennington Junior School organised a range of traditional village activities, including, egg and spoon, sack and space hopper races for both children and adults.

Ed Haffenden, chair of Pennington Sports and Social Club, said: "I'm proud to be a part of Pennington, and supporting our vicar, Rachel, in bringing our community together."

Ms Noël said: "I'm so glad to be the vicar here, there are so many fantastic people in this community and I loved organising this event.

"It's great to give local people a chance to shine, and to show what we can achieve when we work together. I can't wait for Christmas now! If you want to be a part of our Christmas event, 6th December, let us know."