A FAMILY festival that has grown from humble beginnings celebrated its eighth year with huge crowds last weekend.

After seeing the success of small community festivals in neighbouring areas, Phil and Tara Thomas launched 'Picnic in the Park' in Rainford back in 2017.

With a focus on creating a family atmosphere and providing something for all ages, the festival now attracts crowds of around 3,000 people and it returned for an eighth successful year on Saturday, June 1.

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St Helens Star: Crowds came out for the eighth Picnic in the ParkCrowds came out for the eighth Picnic in the Park (Image: Rock the Shots)
Located at the Jubilee Playing Fields on Church Road, this year's festival saw 'Boyzlife' headline the event, who played a combination of classic tracks from Boyzone and Westlife.

90s star Lolly, St Helens based DJ Eric McKenna and cover bands 'Guns or Roses' and 'Parka Monkeys' also played at the event, while Ben from 'Phats & Small' and singer-songwriter Belle were two major highlights.

The festival also included host food and drinks stalls, including local Italian restaurant Little Italy, as well as fairground rides and activities for the kids.

A not-for-profit festival, Picnic in the Park has raised more than £70,000 for Rainford Rangers Football Club, Rainford Cricket Club, Rainford Tennis Club, and Rainford Boys Brigade and Girls Association over the years.

St Helens Star: Singer-songwriter Belle was said to be an incredible talentSinger-songwriter Belle was said to be an incredible talent (Image: Rock the Shots)
Speaking about the event, Phil said: "It was another fantastic event at the festival with around 3,000 people coming out.

"The sun came out and there was a really relaxed and friendly atmosphere which you could feel throughout the day.

"Ben from 'Phats and Small' stole the show and Belle showed that she was an incredible talent, and people kept asking about who will be playing next year.

"It's amazing to see the festival grow and the difference from when we first started, so we are grateful for everyone's support in helping to keep it going."

St Helens Star: The not-for-profit festival has grown steadily over the past eight yearsThe not-for-profit festival has grown steadily over the past eight years (Image: Rock the Shots)