Horley's St George's Day celebrations have again been swelled by record crowds.

For according to organisers the Horley Association of Traders (HATs), the turn-out for this year's day of family fun in the town centre on Saturday was even better than last year's.

HATs committee member Caroline Hancock said: “We were delighted. “Despite the weather, the turn-out was even better than last year.

“People just kept on coming. I think there was 8,000 to 9,000 people.”

She said: “Between 6am and 9am it was pouring with rain, but from 9am, the weather dried up, people were setting up, all the acts turned up, all the stalls, and somehow, the gods were smiling down on us.

“We were really happy with the day.”

The celebrations kicked off with the traditional parade through the town centre led by the Redhill Corps of Drums and St George – alias James Baker – pulling the dragon he made himself, followed by walking groups, the children's flag competition winners and two other St Georges to boot.

Other highlights included live entertainment from music turns including Paul Cox and Back2Back, the Carina Rose dancers, a hotly-contested pie-eating contest and a live broadcast throughout the event by Merstham-based community radio station Susy Radio 103.4.

There were also more than 50 stalls doing a brisk trade in the High Street and a fun fair in full swing in Consort East car park.

Thanking the volunteers and sponsors Fairalls and Britannia Crest for making the day possible, Ms Hancock said HATs is now moving on to organising its Christmas festival in the town centre, and next year's St George's Day celebrations.