IT'S back and it was bigger and better.

The Winklebury Gala returned for a second year on Saturday with hundreds of people descending on Winklebury Playing Fields to enjoy craft stalls, refreshments, attractions, a display arena and a car boot sale.

The event, which had a space theme with some Star Wars characters on parade, also featured local talent in the arena, a balloon modelling magician and an area Jenny’s Corner featured story readings for children.

Shirley Keer, chairperson of the gala organising committee, said: "The day was fantastic. The atmosphere was amazing - everybody was smiling and laughing. We've had a lot of positive feedback from people.

"Considering there was World Party and the Fort Hill reunion on, the fact we got so many people was great.

"It has got bigger and better and hopefully the people of Winklebury will now realise it is going to be a regular event."

The event is raising money for the Winklebury Youth Project and to buy an accessible swing for a play park. The final amount raised has yet to be confirmed.

The organising committee is already planning for the event next year, with a cowboys and aliens theme planned, and speaking of planning ahead, the event also featured a Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council stall where guests could find out more about the Winklebury regeneration plan.

Shirley added: "It was probably the most popular stall at the event."