Vikings and Fireworks in Derbyshire

VIKING swords clashed and fireworks exploded across the sky as a £7m Derbyshire marina finally celebrated its official launch.

The soaring temperatures over the weekend meant thousands visited the two-day event at Mercia Marina, Willington.

Live music, stalls, a huge rock-climbing wall and a hog roast were among the attractions.

The big highlights were the £3,000 firework display on Saturday and re-enactments of Viking battles and a Viking village in nearby fields.

The 585-berth marina, the biggest in the UK, opened last year but owners Madecorn Leisure decided to hold an official opening this weekend.

Facilities include amenity buildings for boat-owners and visitors, a covered dry dock, a repair and maintenance workshop, two boat-hire services and an area to buy and sell new and second-hand boats.

The Viking re-enactments were an apt choice after evidence of farming from more than 6,000 years ago was unearthed during archaeological digs at the £7m marina.