And hundreds of children joined a huge parade in which they flew historically-themed hand-made banners to mark the anniversary as part of the Hotspur Festival.

Organisers from Alnwick Community Development Trust laid on the three-day spectacular, which involved schools from across the North East and entertainers from around the UK.

The festivities got under way on Friday, with the world premiere of a specially-commissioned choral concert, created by local composer Cheryl Camm, at Alnwick Playhouse.

Thousands of visitors were out in the streets on Saturday and Sunday, to enjoy a packed programme of entertainment in the Market Place, as well as locally-produced foods and crafts.

Attractions included medieval music, juggling and circus skills workshops, stiltwalkers dressed as dragons and knights, and historical combat demonstrations with sword, dagger and pollaxe by expert practitioners.

Alnwick Castle also opened its doors to the public free of charge on Sunday, courtesy of the Duke of Northumberland and his family, allowing guests to see not only the magnificent decor and art treasures, but also the latest additions such as the Knights Quest for children.

Trust chairman Carys Thomas said: "Despite the rain the event has been a big success – the entertainments were fabulous, the town and castle were busy and there were lots of happy faces.

"The point was to celebrate the town in which we live and to involve the community in making Alnwick a fun and lively place to be for the weekend. I think we very much achieved that. We couldn't have done it without the support of a huge number of volunteers, businesses, and other organisations."

l A coffee morning is being held in the Northumberland Hall, Alnwick, from 9am to noon on Saturday, to watch a DVD of the festival. Copies will then go on sale with proceeds to the Hotspur Festival.