THOUSANDS descended on Northwich town centre on Saturday for the second Now Northwich festival.

Giant insects roamed the streets alongside hundreds of dancers and performers in a celebration all things street art.

With visitors urged to 'expect the unexpected' following last year's giant dinosaur finale, the unique event catered for all ages with a family zone, youth zone and more.

Kicking off at 1pm with a procession called 'The Weavers Tale', the festival brought together community groups, schools and clubs to rub shoulders alongside internationally-renowned performers.

Witton Street and Barons Quay was awash with colour and activity, culminating in the jaw-dropping 'Insectes' by Sarruga – as 20ft insects paraded through the streets after dark.

Cllr Sam Naylor said: "So special to be involved with another fantastic event in the great town of Northwich. "CWAC, the BID, Northwich Town Council, our Rotarians, the Arts Council, Barons Quay Social, all volunteers and many others were orchestrated by Cheshire Dance to produce an amazing day.

"We are all determined to make Northwich the events capital of Cheshire. Next up is the Christmas Extravaganza and already next year we will have the Krazy Races and a Pride Carnival. Northwich is on the up!"

Now Northwich, part of the Without Walls Creative Development Network, is organised by Cheshire Dance in collaboration with Cheshire West and Chester Council, Northwich Town Council and Barons Quay.

Funding comes from Arts Council England, CWAC, Northwich BID, Charcoal Blue, Vale Royal Rotary Club, Encirc and CWAC members’ budgets.

A Cheshire Dance spokesman said: "Cheshire Dance and Now Northwich would like to say a huge thanks to all those that made this year’s event happen.

"They are Arts Council England, Cheshire West and Chester Council, Northwich Town Council, Northwich BID, Barons Quay, Barons Quay Social, Without Walls, Charcoal Blue, Frank Roberts & Sons Ltd, Encirc, Bennetts Associates, Vale Royal Rotary Northwich, Northwich Rotary Club and elected members of CWAC.

"We would also like to extend a massive thank you to all of our volunteers who went above and beyond.

"Without their help, time and incredible enthusiasm, Now Northwich would not be possible.”