Mysteries of the sea were unveiled for visitors who flocked to Old Leigh's first ever Fishing Festival.

They satisfied their curiosity over the journey of cockles from sea bed to dinner table, and watched as historic skills like sail-making were revived before their eyes.

The event was hailed as a great success by Councillor Reta Cocks, who said: "We tried to do a seafood festival last year, but this fishing festival was an idea by Councillor Peter Dolby and it just seems to have taken off."

Trippers were able to talk to fishermen, sample some of their wares and visit a host of seafood stalls and fund raising groups.

Among these was the team led by Mrs Cocks, raising money for Leigh Endeavour Trust - a charity working to rebuild the historic Leigh boat the Endeavour.

The vessel, which was owned by her father William (Joe) Deal, went to Dunkirk to save stranded British soldiers during the war.

Other boats which are currently hard at work in the cockling trade were moored up for visitors to see.

They also had the chance to taste some of the wares.