CIRENCESTER participated in a nationwide event earlier this month.

June 16 saw the Abbey Grounds play host to The Big Lunch, an annual get-together for communities and neighbours in the UK.

Pictures by Ian Lloyd Graham and Adrian McPherson Photography - for all 40 photos, see our picture gallery.

The event acknowledged the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings with a modern take on wartime slogans like “Dig for Victory” and “Make Do and Mend”.

It explored ways to become more sustainable, as well as offering the chance to celebrate history and heritage.

Cirencester’s Big Lunch featured activities, games and entertainment, including a climbing wall sponsored by infrastructure company Lit Fibre and a silent disco.

An artisan market, a traditional beer tent, live performances from local musicians and food and drink stalls were also part of the event.

In addition, people brought their own food and picnics to share with friends.

Local groups, charities and organisations shared information and talked about self-sufficiency principles, encouraging more sustainable behaviours like growing your own and repairing, reusing, repurposing and recycling.

The Eden Project conceived the idea of The Big Lunch, which officially took place in 2024 on June 1 and 2.

Nationally, 14.1 million people reportedly participated in the event last year.