Around 4000 visitors attended the annual Big Day Out event at Suffolk Rural College in Otley.
The free event has been running for 19 years.
It offers the local community a chance to take part in a variety of activities.
They included a host of hands-on sessions relating to all departments at the land-based campus in the countryside.
Floristry learners worked with the public and created mini bouquets whilst collecting money for the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.
Construction learners celebrated Ipswich Town Football Club’s promotion to the Premier League and showcased their skills by building a brick wall showing the letters ITFC – and the restaurant Chefs’ Whites hosted cooking demos.
External companies also came along and included charities and local companies like Suffolk Archives, Suffolk Beekeepers Association and Mr Barks Dog Bakery.
Paws of Parham were involved in dog agility activities. Whilst Riding for the Disabled (RDA) raised cash for their organisation via a tombola and the Suffolk Vaulting Club wowed guests via equine demonstrations.
Organiser of the event, Charlotte Rossiter, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who supported us this year. What a day – the weather was perfect and the atmosphere was brilliant.”
Principal and CEO of the Suffolk New College and Suffolk Rural said: “The Big Day Out gets bigger and better every year. There are more stalls, more people and more activities. We anchor ourselves on behalf of the communities that we serve so
I’m really delighted with the incredible response they gave us.”
Even Ed Sheeran made an appearance thanks to a performance from music students Trey and Blaine who delighted the crowd with a cover version of Ed’s big hit called ‘Sing’.
A host of external companies also attended to sell their wares.
Matt Lambert from Yum Yum Tree Fudge has supported the Big Day Out for a number of years: Matt said: “We always support the college, our local community and up and coming young farmers so that is why we attend. It (the Big Day Out) is a proper family day out.”
Siu Mei Bryam and Sebastian Holland from Wok and Roll were stallholders this year. Siu said: “This is our third year as it’s always a good turn out.
“All the people are friendly and it’s really well organised. The Big Day Out has a good family orientated atmosphere. We will be back next year.”
Visitors included Stephanie Lee-Barrett who came along with her son Dan. Stephanie, from Ipswich said: “We have been previous years and it’s been really good. There are lots of accessible activities and it’s a really happy and chilled family event.
All the children love it as they get to try out new things.”
Gemma Jay from Woodbridge brought her son Kyler along and the Ipswich Town fan was pictured on a tractor. Gemma said: “We thought we’d come along and we enjoyed ourselves. In terms of Ipswich Town FC Gemma added: “We are excited for next season.”
Abi Nicholls brought her husband and two children along to the Spring Day Out at Suffolk Rural and they enjoyed it so much they came back for the Big Day Out. Abi said: “The kids loved the animals, it was beautiful weather and a great day out with friends.”
Lucy Logan took her daughter called Milly facepainting. Lucy said: “It’s hard to find things that are free – so this is incredible.”
Stacey Flores from Ipswich attended with her daughter Autumn. Stacey said: “We came along as we’ve been before and we loved it. It’s very family friendly and lots of fun.”
And Eziah Smith from Ipswich wants to build things when he gets older according to his mum Carmelia. Carmelia said: “It’s been really lovely and Eziah made a bird feeder. He is keen on construction and animals – so I think he might be a future student.”
Next up for Suffolk Rural and Suffolk New College will be their attendance at the 2024 Suffolk Show where they will be involved in numerous activities across Trinity Park.