HUNDREDS of people braved the dismal weekend weather to see the hidden side of Royston on Sunday.

Royston Open Secrets brought together businesses, charities and local voluntary bodies to show visitors what the town has to offer.

“It was fantastic, it was really good and better than I could have been considering what the weather did,” said Julian Berry, committee member.

“It was a really good day - it was all about Royston.”

“It was really heartwarming, we planned it and I hoped it would go well but when it came off it was amazing.”

A large marquee on Therfield Heath sheltered visitors from the elements and a number of events were moved inside to ensure they went ahead.

However a dog display had to take place outside and The Royston Town Band were forced to play under a lean-to.

Royston MP Oliver Heald and the town’s mayor Rob Inwood were among the many visitors to the event, which aimed to bring businesses and voluntary groups together.

Michael Weeks, chair of North Herts District Council judged the 80 stands and declared the winner to be local charity Save5.

The group raise awareness about the importance of signing up for the organ donors register and over 100 people signed up to become organ donors.

T Sandeman-Charles, Save5’s founder, said: “Thanks to your kindness, Save5 had the best day ever with 122 people signing up as organ donors, which means that sometime in the future 610 lives could be saved or transformed.”