Circus performers, a comedy brothers act and even a robot horse kept families in Diss entertained as the Norfolk and Norwich Festival made its first ever visit to the town.

Irish brothers Sean and Seamus, also known as the Lords of Strut, had the audience of parents and children in stitches with their comedy routine and acrobatic stunts at Mere Park on Friday.

They were followed by Paka Johnson's 'Out and about with Whinny and a canter', which featured the robotic horse Whinny leading his master on a merry dance around the park.

The Lost in Translation circus, from Great Yarmouth, also performed Le Ballade de Bergerac, a story about a flight to the moon, while the street theatre group Wet Picnic brought its show The Lift to the park.

Emma Goddard, of Sunnyside, Diss, was visiting with her children Katy, seven, and Lilly, six.

She said: 'I think the whole idea is fantastic. The fact that we can come to the park and have free entertainment and the fact that the Norfolk and Norwich Festival has spread its wings and come to the area is fantastic.'

Jo Brooks, from Eye, was also watching with her son Alfie, four, and was particularly impressed with the Lords of Strut.

She added: 'I thought they were fantastic.

'I think it is brilliant that they have come here and what we have seen so far has been amazing.'

And Gail Clay, of Scholars Walk, Diss, said her children Chloe, 14 and Katie had enjoyed what they had seen of the festival.

'We have never been to this before, but it has been good fun so far,' she said.

William Galinsky, artistic director of the festival, said the Diss Family Day had been made possible through funding from South Norfolk Council and he was hopeful the festival, which also visits Holkham, King's Lynn and Great Yarmouth, would be able to return next year.

He added: 'We have really enjoyed being here and hopefully we will be able to come again next year.'

Are you organising a commuity event? Tell the Mercury by calling 01379 651153 or email dma.news@archant.co.uk