Wet Wet Wet goes down a storm

Revellers at the annual Summer Sounds festival in Erewash refused to let a spot of rain dampen their spirits - as Wet Wet Wet frontman “Marti Pellow” wowed crowds.

The tribute act joined “Take That” and “Kylie” at the annual Sunday gathering in Ilkeston’s Victoria Park, where more than 1,000 music lovers defied forecasts of sorry summer weather.

Many enjoyed picnics on what turned out to be a fine day – apart from a half-hour monsoon just as Marti joined the party.

The new Mayor of Erewash Councillor Frank Phillips opened the free event, which was celebrating its 13th year. First to take to the bandstand was rock n roll crooner Alan Becks.

Special guest star Jolly Jingles the clown entertained kids who got to enjoy face painting. The kneesup was among a host of events staged by the council across the borough. Others included jazz and brass band concerts.

Erewash council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Becca Everett, who is the Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “We were fairly lucky with the weather in what was not a great summer for sunshine.”

Event diary

Our Queen Remembered: Now until Sep 29, Erewash Museum Ilkeston

Enchanted Garden: Sat 16 Sep, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 11am to 3pm

Ilkeston Charter Fair: Wed 18 Oct to Sat 21 Oct

Halloween Week Extravaganza: Until Sat Oct 28, Erewash Museum

Ilkeston

Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular: Sat 4 Nov, West Park, Long Eaton. Gates open 5pm

Armistice Day: Sat 11 Nov from 10:45am at Ilkeston Market Place Cenotaph and St Laurence’s Churchyard, Long Eaton

Stargazing Event: Sat 11 Nov, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 6pm to 9pm

Remembrance Day Services and Parades: Sun 12 Nov Ilkeston and Long Eaton 10:45am

Chestnut Fair: Thu 17 Nov to Sat 19 Nov, Long Eaton

Long Eaton Christmas Lights Switch-on: Thur 23 Nov, from 5.30pm

Ilkeston Christmas Lights Switch-on: Fri 24 Nov, from 5.30pm

Craftsmas Fair: Fri 24 Nov, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 5:30pm to 8:30pm

Santa Saturdays: Sat 9 Dec and Sat 16 Dec, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 10am to 3pm