RAIN failed to dampen the enthusiasm of crowds as a famous old fair made a comeback.

The Fairlop Fair, which was held at Fairlop Waters over the weekend, attracted as many as 200,000 people in its 18th century heyday.

It returned after a 100-year gap last summer and proved so popular that organisers staged an even bigger version this year.

Around 2,500 people braved the weather to enjoy traditional games and listen to folk music from musicians including a cycling piano man and a hurdy gurdy player.

Children were kept entertained by traditional games and old-fashioned story telling.

Jacqueline Eggleston, who put the event together on behalf of Redbridge Council, said: “Considering the torrential rain we had I was delighted to see so many people turn up.

“Had it been sunny I think we would have got double the numbers.

“Historically all sorts of weird and wonderful people and entertainers came to the fair and we have tried to recreate that spirit.

“The children in particular enjoyed the unique entertainment we had on offer – I think it was very different to the usual fun fairs they are used to.”

Things occasionally got out of hand at the original fair, and in 1765 the local constabulary reported "a great number of people meeting in a riotous and tumultuous manner selling ale and spirituous liquors”

Ms Eggleston said: “We tried to recreate some of that frivolity on a smaller scale with a local microbrewery from Aldborough Hatch selling traditional ales.”