Towersey Festival 2019 at Thame Showground - pictures

Today temperatures hit 31C at Towersey Festival, which ends tomorrow, but the scorching weather did not deter revellers from flocking to Thame Showground in their droves.

An array of colourful costumes have been on show for the first three days of an event that has gained iconic status as the country's longest-running independent music festival.

It has taken place every August Bank Holiday since 1965 and festival director, Joe Heap, was delighted to see so many people take advantage of the warm weather.

He said: "We hit 29C yesterday and today looks like peaking at 31C, making it the warmest Towersey in a fair few years.

"But we have plenty of taps and everyone is staying well hydrated all over the site."

Mr Heap added: "Tickets are still available on the gate or online, so do come and enjoy some amazing weather, well stocked bars and great music and entertainment - including loads of family friendly activities."

The festival director is the grandson of founder Dennis Manners, who held the first ever edition of Towersey in his back garden.

Despite proving a hit from its early days, the event only moved from the village of Towersey to Thame Showground in 2015.

Revellers dressed in wild and wonderful outfits descended on the grounds on Friday morning to provide a shock of colour that has remained throughout the bank holiday weekend.

This year's event has already sold 8,000 tickets across the fourth days, with revellers grabbing the opportunity to watch a host of headliners.

Legendary rock band Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel and shanty singers Fisherman's Friends played on Friday, while Newton Faulkner and From the Jam were among the highlights yesterday.

Mr Heap revealed the festival's first ever silent ceilidh yesterday was a hit with crowds, calling it 'an absolute triumph' and the 'talk of the festival'.

Artists including Hot House Flowers and The Selecter, led by iconic frontwoman Pauline Black, are among the top picks today.

Emotions will be running high at Towersey tomorrow, with an afternoon tribute to patron singer and activist Roy Bailey, who passed away last year.

Mr Bailey appeared at the very first festival in Mr Manners' back garden and performed there for the next 53 years.

The one-off show will feature insights into his music and interpretations of his material, plus stories of Towersey through the years and the wider folk music world.

Guests will include Tom Robinson, the festival's lantern parade, the Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain and a final from the Conservative Folk Ensemble.

Although the stars have come out to pay tribute to Mr Bailey, Towersey is offering much more than just live music.

Several activities have been organised for all ages, including salsa dance, yoga and fire walking.