BANBURY'S Canal Day on Sunday was hailed a success by organisers despite periods of torrential rain and strong winds that sent visitors running for shelter.

Charity stalls and an Italian market did good business during the dry spells, and other attractions, such as boat trips, live folk music, falconry, fun fair, morris dancing, and beer tent pulled in plenty of customers.

The event began in bright sunshine with the tow path packed with enthusiasts, and Cherwell Plaza, outside Castle Quay shopping centre, crowded with shoppers and onlookers.

But rain clouds soon blew in and umbrellas became the order of the day as heavy showers interrupted the fun.

One particularly heavy storm with near gale force winds, saw stallholders hanging on to their goods as people dashed for the safety of the shopping centre or multi-storey car park.

Town mayor John Donaldson, who joined Banbury's Territorial Army in a rowing marathon to raise money for the British Lung Foundation, said: "This is such a well-organised day, and it is a real shame when the weather intervenes and spoils things."

Main organiser Tricia Campbell said: "I was pleased and delighted with the turnout, considering the weather.

"The car parks were full all day, the charity stalls all did well, and the the beer tent sold out of beer.

"There were some hitches - the Irish dancers could not perform because of the rain, and the funfair suffered, but in between storms and in the afternoon, the festival site was very busy."