THESE residents at Barlby turned out in force to celebrate their homecoming after last November's floods.

Almost 200 people joined in a street party, which started at 3pm and went on into the early hours of the morning.

It was a double celebration with organisers using the party to also commemorate VE Day. Organiser Doreen Sweeting, of Barlby Crescent, said: "We normally celebrate VE Day with a street party in July, but we left it until now because all the people on the Third Estate were not back home because of flood repair work. It was a tremendous turn-out and a lovely community atmosphere, with everybody joining in.

"The flooding and its aftermath have been horrendous for us all and residents deserved to let their hair down."

The good old-fashioned knees-up included tables and chairs set out along Barlby Crescent, a barbecue, music, a live singer, dancing and fireworks.

There were also traditional children's games such as hoola-hoop, hook a duck, coconut shy and wellington throwing. Proceeds will go towards next year's street party and to the Hearing Dogs For The Deaf centre at Cliffe.

Updated: 14:50 Tuesday, September 04, 2001