AS JERK chicken sizzled in the pan, food lovers enjoyed a rare taste of the sun at the Broadgreen Streetfood Festival.

Now in its second year, the festival saw families given the chance to try cuisine from across the world. And if the spice of Bombay chaats proved too hot, people could cool down with an ice cream from Old Town parlour Rays’ pop-up stall.

The main stage buzzed with dance performances and samba. And the India – Pakistan Cricket World Cup clash was broadcast live, so lovers of the sound of leather on willow didn’t miss the action. Swindon PCSOs made an appearance and firefighters from nearby Drove Road fire station showed-off their fire engine.

The festival was organised by South Swindon Parish Council. Chairman of the parish Chris Watts said: “It’s gone great. This is what we were hoping we could build this event into. We’ve seen an increase in footfall, more vendors and the music has been great. Everyone is having a good time.

“The point of these events is to bring the different communities together. They don’t need much persuading to have a good time.”

Morley Street restaurant Kutting Chai brought its Indian street food-inspired cooking to Swindon’s streets. Chef Aldred Rodrigues said: “This is a very good opportunity for us. It’s amazing. We’ve had regular clients and other people have been introduced to Bombay street food. They’re loving it.”

Watching Swindon band Ministry of Samba, Kate Parsons, of Old Town, joked: “We came down here for the walk – and I felt hungry.”

Amit Boora, from the town centre, said: “It’s really good. I’m here with my wife and son. We’ve enjoyed the street food and the music.”

Youngsters from Holy Cross Primary School kicked off the festival yesterday morning with a Portuguese dance performance.

Sheila D’Costa, who organises the school’s Indian dance club, said: “They did very well. It’s all about love. We wanted to give that message through the dance to people: love one another.”

Sam Dowdeswell, assistant headteacher at Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, said: “I think it’s really nice to see a mixture of all different cultures and ages coming together to have a good time.

"It’s nice to come out and watch the children.”