THE annual Bude-Stratton Heritage Festival celebrating and showcasing the town’s cultural past, present and future took place on Sunday.

Whilst the persistent rain caused many adjustments to the planned programme, those who braved the elements enjoyed a diverse range of stalls, exhibits, activities and performances.

The Mayor of Bude-Stratton, Cllr Lea Deely, was delighted to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward Bolitho, to officially open the 2016 Heritage Festival.

Unforeseen circumstances saw Bude Motor Club, who were busy hosting a static display of vintage and classic vehicles, step in at the last minute to ensure Colonel Bolitho arrived in style.

Bude Metric Brass greeted the Lord-Lieutenant with a rousing fanfare whilst a small crowd looked on.

Following a short speech, all the Mayor’s guests, including Conservative North Cornwall MP Scott Mann, toured the festival site, which is central to two of Bude’s significant heritage, the Castle and the Bude Canal.

Cllr Deely said: “The weather has not been kind to us today at all. But what is shining through is the community spirit, the refusal to allow the rain to dampen the celebration.

“From Bude Pilot Gig Club who are vociferously rowing whilst entertaining on the canal, the dogs and their owners who are stoically getting drenched through in the show ring, to the stallholders who are still smiling and welcoming.

“To every exhibitor, contributor, performer and visitor, I sincerely thank you for your good humour and flexibility. Quite simply put, without this our town council led event could not happen. It has been my privilege to show the Lord-Lieutenant what makes Bude such a special place.”