More than 8,000 people from Derbyshire churches celebrated at Chatsworth this weekend as the Diocese of Derby's 75th anniversary events reached a climax at its 'Party in the Park' on Saturday.

The event was deemed a huge success, attracting Christians and their friends and families for the biggest celebration gathering since the Diocese was founded in 1927.

Special guests included the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey and Margaret Beckett MP, along with dignitaries and visitors from as far as Tanzania and India.

The beautiful grounds of Chatsworth House were teeming with people and buzzing with activities for all ages, including clowns, Kwik Cricket, archery, live bands, thought-provoking debates and workshops on all sorts of skills, including art, drama, music, t-shirt-making and even circus skills.

The visiting Archbishop received a warm welcome and spent an hour on walkabout around the event, meeting people and seeing more of what was in the various marquees. He was clearly impressed by Derbyshire's Christian commitment.

He said at the event: "The theme of a Party really picks up what the Church is all about - rejoicing in God's love for us and sharing that faith with others. Although this event is set in the context of a very beautiful part of England, the people of Derbyshire have not forgotten the wider concerns of the Church. Exhibitors have brought the needs and cultures of other countries in the World to our attention as well as celebrating their fellowship on a local level. I spoke to one young lady and she said she hoped it wouldn't be another 75 years until churches could come together again in this way. Everyone is having a wonderful time."

The Bishop of Derby, the Rt Revd Jonathan Bailey had an active role at the Party with several speaking engagements, but ensured he got to meet the people who had come. He said: "It was encouraging to see such a huge cross-section of people at the event and there was something to interest everyone. It really was a Party atmosphere - I hope we can do this again for our 80th."

Anne Brady, from Chellaston, Derby, whose children spent most of the day in the 'Children's Den' marquee, said she thought the event had broad appeal: "There's been more than enough going on for the kids and they've thoroughly enjoyed it. The speakers have been good for the adults too - the whole event has felt like a real celebration of faith."

The Diocese of Derby's youth adviser Alistair Langton said: "I wish we could do this every weekend. What a tonic it has been for us all."

The Party in the Park organisation was overseen by the Revd John Currin, vicar of All Saints Church, in Matlock Bath. Over two years he chaired a team of people to plan the event, as well as continuing to run his own parish. "The event has been successful well beyond my expectations. The sun came out, we sold more tickets than we hoped for and everything came together as we planned. I'm grateful to all those who helped make it happen," he said.

The Party closed with an hour-long service from the main stage during which worshippers heard Derbyshire church choirs, an address from the Archbishop and readings from young Christians.

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