BARBECUE fans stepped up to the fiery plate for Maldon Smoke and Fire Festival’s return to Prom Park.

The festival returned for its second year on Saturday and Sunday, raising funds for the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance.

Festival director Ashley Bird said: "The festival was a huge success with approximately 18,000 visitors attending over the two days.

"Traders and visitors were all saying what a fabulous event it was with the ambulance service saying they were blown away by the support they had received.

"As organisers, we would like to thank our many supporters and fans especially Maldon District Council and their team for there support, working with us to make this such a fantastic event."