It takes more than a bit of thunder and rain to snuff out the spirit of the Barton Bash.

Shunning the showers and gloomy skies, people from the Oxford estate and beyond turned up in their hundreds to party inside and outside the Neighbourhood Centre.

Accompanied by the Army Cadets bugles and drums, Oxford's Lord Mayor John Tanner kicked off the bash on Saturday afternoon and from then on it was six hours of merry-making.

One of the organisers, Maureen Robertson, said: "There was no doubt about the enthusiasm that made this second Bash a great success. It was a tribute to all those people, both young and old, who played their part and those who came along to support the event.

"What it showed was that the community in Barton is very much alive and well. People here want to show that there is a good and positive side to life. It's not all gloom by a long way."

About 1,000 people visited the Bash. The turnout encouraged the organisers to say they are hopeful for another party next year - and there could be a carnival.

Mrs Robertson said: "There is a feeling that we should have a carnival next year, just like the old days with decorated floats touring the area, before another Bash.

"There is a lot of enthusiasm for the idea but it will all depend on the number of volunteers we can recruit."

The Bash buzzed with dozens of stalls, entertainers and activities for all tastes. To mark Oxfordshire's 1,000th anniversary as a county, there was an exhibition looking at the history of the area. There was music, dancing, singing and African drumming. A fire engine was a big draw for youngsters who sat in the driving seat and donned helmets.

Ugandan-born David Rubadiri, his wife Anisha and two-year-old son Hashem, who have lived on the estate for two years, were impressed. Mrs Rubadiri said: "It was great to see so many people enjoying themselves and getting together as a community. It shows what a great spirit there is in Barton. We enjoy living here."

Sharon Bailey, who enjoyed the event with her children, Liam, nine, and Chloe, six, said: "It was a pity that we had to move in and out to dodge the rain, but that didn't matter because it took more than bad weather to dampen our spirits.

"What it showed more than anything was the strength of community spirit."

The vibrancy not only infected the young. Barton's senior residents also enjoyed the knees-up.

Mavis Marriott, 83, said: "We have all enjoyed the day seeing so many people of all ages getting together and showing what can be achieved. I would like to see the carnival revived for next year. There is a lot to be proud of in Barton."

One of the biggest attractions was the Barton-born group called Messy Jam Dance Troupe, started three years ago by Yasmine Rennie and Daniel Robertson, both keen followers of street or urban dancing. The hall was packed with onlookers, and many people joined in.

Yasmine, 16, said: "Daniel and I have always enjoyed street dancing and decided to get lessons going. We approached professional dancer Ellisha Peart and another teacher Ishmael Jackson who gave us some coaching and advice and from there, the group began to grow."