HEAVY downpours did nothing to dampen the spirits at a community fun day that returned to Firthmoor for the fifth year.

Crowds turned out in force to enjoy Firthmoor Live which saw entertainers, fairground rides and lots of family fun take place the playing fields on the Darlington estate.

The odd outburst of heavy rain did not stop the fun and one of the organising team, Cllr Kevin Nicholson said: "We were overwhelmed with the support from the community who turned out.

"We had just short of 4,000 people come from all across Darlington which is just amazing really.

"Obviously we had a couple of really heavy showers but it didn't spoil anything for anyone."

This year's event was the biggest yet and had an Australian theme.

Cllr Nicholson added: "It was just amazing, it was a family day and everyone enjoyed themselves; there were actually people dancing in the streets which was great to see."

Cllr Nicholson praised the team behind the event and also thanked the police and the council's civic enforcement team for their support.