Hundreds enjoyed the Love Patcham festival at Patcham High School’s field.

There were live acts, bouncy castles, craft and charity stalls, a visit by a fire engine and various games and fairground activities including a coconut shy and sumo wrestling.

Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, said: “Fantastic event. Hoping it becomes an annual event from now on.

“I like five churches coming together to do something together for the community. Very exciting. Lots for the kids to do.”

At the opening of the Love Patcham festival Christy Smith, senior pastor of Brighton Elim Church, said: “It's free because it's a practical demonstration of God's love to the people of Patcham.”

Patcham Silver Band, Barnstormers and a live band with people from all the churches provided the music. Brighton Dancing taught visitors dances including the tango and charleston.

The fire engine had to leave suddenly when it received an emergency call but returned later to the crowd's delight.

Soul by the Sea performed two short plays based on the healing of the blind man and the parable of the prodigal son from the Bible.

Kate Linscott of Wilmington Way, Patcham said: “Children enjoying it. Nice for the children for the community to come together.”

Rev Smith said more than 1,000 people had come to the festival organised by All Saints Patcham, Ascension in Westdene, Brighton Elim Pentecostal, Patcham Methodist and St Thomas More Catholic church.

Nenier Michels of Patcham said: “I like all the free events for the children. It's a little community do. Lots of people from Patcham and other areas.”

It took a big team from all the churches about four months to organise the festival.

Penny Wight, the main coordinator, said: “It's been a lot of work but it's fantastic that it's bigger than we thought possible.”

The event was held on Saturday September 20.