LIVE music, special guests and activities united visitors at an Olympic-themed picnic in Dorchester’s Borough Gardens.

Sunny weather was enjoyed by scores of families who attended the ‘Olympicnic’ community event.

The gardens were a hub of activity as children splashed around in water fountain and adults relaxed in deckchairs.

It was organised by Christian Aid and Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), The event aimed to bring people together to kick-start Christian Aid week and remind people how fortunate they are ahead of the Olympic Games.

Peter Mann, Dorchester town councillor and lead organiser of the event, said: “With so many people visiting Dorset because of the Olympics we should remember that we are all one world with one people.”

Tracey Clarke and her children visited the gardens to make the most of the sunshine. Tracey, from Fordington, said: “The kids are having loads of fun.

“It is really important to bring people together ahead of the Games and Christian Aid is spreading a really important message.”

Tasha Bailey, aged 16, who lives in Dorchester, volunteered to help out on the day.

She said: “It is such an important charity and people need to know about what is going on with others who are less fortunate.”

Anthea Parker visited the gardens with her children and three of their friends. The youngsters – Henry, Ellie, Finley, Ellie and Harriet – enjoyed playing in the fountain.

Henry, eight, said: “We are having loads of fun. There is ice-cream and lots to do.”

The afternoon was filled with talks given by Christian Aid representatives.

Jeanne Kamara, who works for Christian Aid in Africa, travelled thousands of miles to tell visitors about the charity’s good work.

Martin John Nicholls, south-west manager for Christian Aid, was on hand to present the live music roadshow where he performed some of his own songs.

He said: “For the week of Christian Aid some friends and I will attempt to live off £1 a day. More than 1.4 billion people live in this way every day.”

The day concluded with a service led by the Bishop of Sherborne Dr Graham Kings, who talked about his experiences of working in Africa.

Dorchester mayor Tess James and town crier Alistair Chisholm also took part in the service.

Coun James said: “It brings people together and reminds us that we are very fortunate.”