LORD Nelson, Lady Hamilton and the battle of Trafalgar was the theme for this year's Beaulieu village fete.

Lord Montague's Palace House Lawns opened to hundreds of visitors for the annual summer event, which raises money for clubs and organisations in the village.

A period fancy dress competition judged by guest of honour newly-wed Ailsa Montagu saw the historical figures come alive in the New Forest as youngsters looked to the maritime vessels for their ship based costumes.

A variety of garden, craft and cake stalls, a grand draw, and an opportunity to dress up and be photographed with a vintage car brought in the crowds to the twelfth annual fete.

Margaret Rowles, one of the fete organisers, said the day was a huge success and many visitors felt it was the best fete they had ever been to.

"We usually raise around £9,000 for the community and we have certainly done that again this year."