IT WAS the day residents came together to celebrate the river that runs through their community.

Riverfest, part of Southampton’s Sailing Week, was held at the 80-acre Riverside Park to mark the contribution made to life by the River Itchen.

The day-long event is being hailed a success - although bad weather at the start is thought to have hit attendance figures.

A group of friends based at St Denys and Bitterne Park decided to stage a day of music, theatre and science as well as games, science and various talks.

Artists, historians and scientists were among those who took part in the event and shared their knowledge of the river with the wider community.

Organisers said they wanted to inspire the community to enjoy and protect the river for future generations.

Partially funded by the Big Lottery, Riverfest was largely held on a large grassy area near Cobden Bridge, with bands, poets and street theatre among the attractions.

St Denys Boat Club displayed its collection of modern and vintage boats. The Riverfest line-up also included an opportunity to enjoy electric boat rides - billed as a smooth, quiet and clean way to travel along the river.

Yoga, meditation and drawing were some of the other activities on offer.

Last night one of the Bitterne Park websites said: “The community festival was hailed as a success by everyone we spoke to throughout the day - even if the weather hadn’t quite reached the expected standard in the morning.

“Congratulations to all for making it happen and especially to the organiser, Catherine Wright.”