No matter how much planning goes into an event there is one thing that remains in the lap of the gods - the weather.

But the dark clouds and rain did not stop thousands of people from attending the fourth Leys Fair on Saturday, which was sponsored by the Oxford Mail.

People of all ages enjoyed the attractions. Organisers said this year's event, held at Blackbird Leys Park and Leisure Centre in Pegasus Road, was the biggest and most successful so far. Vikki Gledhill, 28, of Brake Hill, took along her daughters Jessica, five, and Harriet, seven months.

She said: "This are a great way of getting the community together and seeing what groups and attractions there are in the area.

"It helps to create a sense of community and is a good way of bringing the communities of Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys together."

Lorraine Salts, 29, of Frys Hill, went with her daughter Holly, one, and six-year-old stepdaughter, Mackenzie.

She said: "We really enjoyed it and the kids had a great time. It is a nice community event - especially when the sun shines!"

Planning began last September for the event which was opened by city councillor Val Smith and her husband, Andrew Smith who on Thursday was re-elelected MP for Oxford East. The Sol Samba Percussion Group also helped get things under way with a swing.

The fair featured a record 35 stalls, which sold goods and highlighted the work of local groups, such as the Leys Residents' Association.

Committee member Christine Sellar said: "This event is a good way for us to letting people know what we do and the services on offer."

Other attractions included bouncy castles, martial arts and dance displays, children's rides and an under-tens football tournament. Oxford United's Jamie Brookes handed out the prizes.

The Royal Green Jackets showed off their £250,000 anti-tank missile system, which proved popular.

Another hit was the It's A Knockout contest which saw local teams battle it out over an obstacle course. Participants were sponsored, with the cash going to local groups.

James Morbin, chairman of Leys Fair Steering Group, said: "It's a great day which is run by and for local people. There's not a lot to do and this gives the community a chance to come out and have some fun, mix with other people and get to know their neighbours.

"We closed down early because of the rain but most people realised we couldn't do anything about that."

Work on next year's event is likely to start in the coming months - and hopefully the summer sun will play a more prominent role next time.