The BBC Look East presenter opened Cavendish fete and flower show on Saturday and spent the afternoon signing autographs, posing for photos, chatting and enjoying the attractions.

And although organisers Cavendish Community Council put more emphasis on fun than profit, the event made more than £3,000 for village projects.

Organiser Brian Kemp said later: "It was magnificent. We estimate more than 2,000 people were there, and it looks like we have made a little over £3,000 profit.

"Other organisations also had their own stalls on the green and made a good amount of money for themselves, in addition to our total.

"Julie Reinger arrived at 2pm and stayed the whole afternoon. She brought a friend with her and they really entered into the spirit of things and really enjoyed the occasion.

"We gave her a pastel portrait of herself done by my wife, Judy, (see picture) a print of the village, and a bouquet to thank her."

Cavendish's keenest gardeners were also celebrating a successful afternoon with entries in the annual horticultural show up on last year.

l FAMILY fun was the order of the day for more than 2,000 people in Sudbury's Belle Vue Park on Sunday. Crowds enjoyed sports, arts and entertainment at the annual Summer in the Park event.

Skateboarding, basketball and Samba soccer were among the attractions for sporty youngsters.

Creative types could try face painting, balloon art, jewellery designing and flag making.

The fun day was organised by Babergh Council's community development department.