They took advantage of the sunshine and scorching temperatures to sample the sights and sounds of one of the highlights of the county's summer calendar.

• To watch a video report on the opening by Chad's Jane Hilton, click on the green play icon

Visitors were welcomed to the park by knights in shining armour, jesters and stilt walkers –– along with music from traditional period music.

A walk around the forest proved to be a trip back in time as festival goers were given the chance to listen to tales and stories as well as talk to friends of Robin about his daring deeds.

The historic woodland was packed with arts and crafts stalls, while youngsters were able to try their hand on a pottery wheel and make their own floral garland.

And, as always, one of the traditional highlights of the festival opener was a jousting competition as well as a fight between Robin Hood and his old nemesis, the Sheriff of Nottingham.

A special presentation was also made to seven-year-old Luca Machado, of York, who drew a picture of Robin for staff –– which will now be used as the cover design for the centre's new series of books about the legendary outlaw.