OVER the weekend, Maldon's Promenade Park was host to festivals full of stars and thousands of spectators.

In The Park Concerts kicked off the weekend of events with Fantasia on Saturday, a concert dedicated to the biggest pop hits of the past four decades.

Stars such as Peter Andre, Tony Hadley, S Club, Five, and Gabrielle performed fans in the park.

Andre's son, Junior, joined him on stage to say hello to the crowd, who gave him a very warm welcome.

Andre jokingly expressed his surprise on social media that the young man "got out of bed for the occasion".

Tribute acts, Andrew Browning as George Michael, and Wannabe as Spice Girls, also impressed the crowd.

On Facebook, Andrew Browning said: "Absolutely amazing gig yesterday at Fantasia concert in Maldon, Promenade Park.

"Amazing headline acts and was such a buzz. That audience rocked the park.

"Thank you Denise Van Outen for introducing me onto the stage, who looked incredible.

"Great meeting Peter Andre, Keith Duffy, Brian McFadden, and catching up with the amazing Tony Hadley, blessed to be performing at this great event."

Disney-style choreographed fireworks brought the night to an end.

Around 10,000 people took to the park again on Sunday for the UK's number one family-friendly rave festival, Raver Tots.

The event included sets from famous faces in dance music, with Artful Dodger, Judge Jules, Heartless Crew, The Wideboys, and more.

The Guinness World Record holder for the world's youngest club DJ, Archie, also impressed the families in the audience.

In addition to the performances, families attending enjoyed free funfair rides, soft play, face painting, and a Meet and Greet with Peppa Pig.

Festival-goers said the event was 'brilliant' and 'absolutely bonkers'.

One raver said: "I had such a good day yesterday, getting tickets for Southend."

Raver Tots will be back in Essex on August 30, with a sold out event at Garon Park in Southend.

Essex Police and Community Engagement officers were out in the town and park over the whole weekend to help make sure the spectators got home safely.