An annual festival of peace brought thousands of visitors to a Buckinghamshire park.

The festival, organised by the Rotary Club of Chesham, took over Lowndes Park in Chesham on Saturday September 16.

An estimated 2,000 people came to celebrate the UN International Day of Peace and enjoy entertainment from local talent, food and activities.  

Organiser of the event Parveiz Aslam MBE said: "Peace in the Park brings communities together, allowing everyone to express themselves, especially in these times of hardship around the world. It's an opportunity for us all to stand united in promoting peace and understanding."

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The musical line-up included the Hilltops Ukraine Group, Chesham All Girls Band and Ankara School of Dance among others and poetry, while more than 60 stalls provided food and a chance for visitors to hear about community groups and charities.

Mr Aslam thanked the Rotary Club of Chesham, Silverson, Mad Squirrel, Trekkers, Kalpesh Patel and Chiltern Hills Academy for making the event possible and the “dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly.”

He also paid tribute to Jeremy Gilley, the founder of Peace One Day, and his neighbour Adrian Begon for inspiring a peace event in Chesham. 

"Rotary Club of Chesham's Peace in the Park 2023 proved to be a remarkable celebration of peace, diversity, and unity. It not only showcased the incredible talent within our community but also reinforced the importance of coming together to make a positive impact in the world.

"We look forward to continuing this tradition and hope to see even more people join us in spreading the message of peace in the years to come," he added.