Revellers enjoyed a variety of music and entertainment in a Lowestoft park as an annual event was hailed a success.

Bands of Hope and Glory returned to Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft for its 11th year on Sunday with a fine turnout enjoying the free afternoon concert of music and entertainment.

Lowestoft Journal: Bands of Hope and Glory returned to Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesBands of Hope and Glory returned to Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Funds into research for the relatively rare condition Ataxia were raised.

Organiser Kimble Reynolds said: "This year we are raising funds for ‘Ataxia UK’ who are doing research and providing support for people suffering from the neurological disorder that affects balance, co-ordination and speech.

Lowestoft Journal: Crowds enjoy Bands of Hope and Glory at Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesCrowds enjoy Bands of Hope and Glory at Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"David Lawrence - who is Chair of Kirkley Peoples Forum - came and spoke to the audience from his wheelchair about Ataxia.

"People have been generous in their support especially when they could see the need for research into David's illness.

Lowestoft Journal: Bands of Hope and Glory organiser Kimble Reynolds at Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesBands of Hope and Glory organiser Kimble Reynolds at Sparrow’s Nest Gardens in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"It has been another fantastic day.

"We also had support from the mayor of Lowestoft which was brilliant.

"All the entertainers have performed at no cost with many of them returning year after year.

"It is just wonderful that they are willing to come and appear here for free for an hour’s performance.

"It is very special.

"All the bands have been terrific and we have also had fantastic solo singers as well as shanty singing and a martial arts demonstration."

With the event boosting Ataxia UK - the leading national charity for people affected by any type of ataxia - £301.94 was raised from bucket collections on the day.

Lowestoft Journal: David Lawrence and Matthew Grafton of Kirkley Peoples Forum at Bands of Hope and Glory. Picture: Mick HowesDavid Lawrence and Matthew Grafton of Kirkley Peoples Forum at Bands of Hope and Glory. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Mr Lawrence said: "I have a progressive, neurological condition called Friedereich’s ataxia.

"Although it is hereditary, I did not show any symptoms until I was in my 20s.

Lowestoft Journal: David Lawrence and Matthew Grafton of Kirkley Peoples Forum at Bands of Hope and Glory. Picture: Mick HowesDavid Lawrence and Matthew Grafton of Kirkley Peoples Forum at Bands of Hope and Glory. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"I have used a wheelchair for more than 20 years and regularly access the clinical and social support that Ataxia UK offers.

"There is no cure or treatment for my condition, Ataxia UK funds research which I hope will mean that one day there will be."

You can pledge support via www.justgiving.com/page/bandsofhopeandglory