A FUN-FILLED Panto in the Park event attracted more than 5,000 visitors.

Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty arrived in a glittering glass carriage with Father Christmas.

The mayor and mayoress of Halton Cllrs Alan and Joan Lowe welcomed her to Victoria Park in Widnes on Sunday.

Cast members from The Brindley panto gave sneak previews of songs from the show and mingled with the crowd for selfies and chat.

Children enjoyed free donkey rides, crafts and falconry.

Choirs sang a selection of carols and Christmas music in the bandstand.

Halton Cllr Eddie Jones, board member for events, said: "The council organises seasonal activities to help create a true festive spirit .

"Christmas is a time when communities come together so it was great to see so many local people coming out to participate in and enjoying the atmosphere of this free event.

"So many happy faces and obvious community cohesion makes all of our effort in putting the event together very worthwhile."

Sleeping Beauty opened yesterday and stars TV scouse legend Crissy Rock from Benidorm and I’m A Celebrity as Fairy Nuff.

Former Miss British Isles Rebecca Lake plays Princess Aurora and actress and singer Charlie Griffiths from Desperate Housewives is Cartabosse.

Lorinda King, who has produced, directed and choreographed numerous productions, is the directing the show.

To book tickets for the panto call the box office on 0151 907 8360 or visit thebrindley.org.uk.

There is a British Sign Language Performance on Friday, December 29 at 5pm and a Relaxed Performance on Sunday, January 7 at 1pm.