ORGANISERS of the first Lagoonfest say the event raised £8,000 because of the “Fatboy effect”.

It was held at Hove Lagoon on September 8 and raised thousands thanks to the the attendance of more than 6,000 residents, the hard work of organisers and an impromptu performance from DJ Fatboy Slim.

Chairman of Friends of Hove Lagoon and Conservative councillor for Wish Ward Robert Nemeth, right with Fatboy and organisers Liz Ward and Sue Johnson, said: “Our first ever Lagoonfest was a roaring success with thousands of pounds raised for improvements to the lagoon.

“I put this down to a great team running it and a wonderful community supporting it, but also the invaluable Fatboy effect, which really saw Norman’s backing pull in the crowds. Norman Cook drew large crowds after advertising his appearance online and in posters

On the big day, the free festival was treated to a performance from the music maestro himself.

Attendees took part in activities such as paddle board racing, a dog show, tai chi, and a raffle.

The cash raised will go towards a planting scheme and other Lagoon improvements.

Official sponsors of the event were Fish, Chandlers, Shoreham Port, Big Beach Cafe, Lagoon Wastersports and Lagoon Pirates. The cash that was raised will go towards a planting scheme and other lagoon improvements.