There was a great atmosphere in Enniskillen on the Bank Holiday Monday (May 8) as the local community came together to mark the Coronation of the King and Queen.

The island town's main celebratory event, 'The Big Community Paddle, Picnic and Volunteer Village' took place in and around Enniskillen Castle: Fermanagh County Museum, and despite the changeable weather, seen huge crowds attend throughout the day.

The focus of the event was very much upon celebrating the power of highlighting community spirit, collaboration and compassion, in truly creative and innovative ways.

It was an early start for approximately 50 different volunteer groups who came together to create a dedicated 'Volunteer Village', representing a host of charities and good causes, co-ordinated by Selwyn Johnston, Lough Erne Landscape Partnership (LELP) and a team of volunteers.

With the Volunteer Village shedding a light on the pivotal role of volunteers in the local community, the event also offered those in attendance the opportunity to learn more about local charities and groups, and how to get involved.

Also on the day, many took to the waters of Lough Erne in a variety of vessels for 'The Big Community Paddle' which was ably led by Peter Scott and other members of the RNLI.

Speaking about the success of the Coronation events, High Sheriff for County Fermanagh, Noelle McAlinden said: "The energy, pride and excitement was infectious. For me, a privilege as High Sheriff was to welcome the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton Harris, and bring him to meet some of the many stars of this place.

"The sun shone despite the forecast and for one day BBC Radio Ulster were resident in the Island Town of Enniskillen with the Connor Phillips Show broadcast from the spectacular vista of The Broadmeadow and then onboard Barry Flanagan's Erne Water Taxi 'The Island Discovery'.

She continued: "Hugo Duncan had an excellent vantage point from his location, broadcasting from the Castle Courtyard, entertaining audiences who danced and listened and responded with rapturous applause and inside Enniskillen Castle, the Lynette Fay Show had the perfect view of the activity in the Castle Grounds, which were transformed into a wonderland of creativity, curiosity and imagination for children and adults alike."

Entertainment was in abundance throughout the day with a number of performances including a community choir of all ages, bands, Erne Highland Dancers and Jets Cheerleaders Enniskillen. All exhibited their talents to very appreciative audiences.

"All traditions of music represented from the Fermanagh Concert Band to The Porter Bellys, it was a masterpiece from start to finish," said Noelle adding: "Lynette Fay celebrated with volunteers from the Community Choir, their first performance on live radio under the direction of Jonathan Beatty and Aideen.

"Our very own Conor Phillips, Fermanagh born singer-songwriter performed two of his own songs and interviews continued with moving contributions from Nuala O'Toole on her ideas behind The Kindness Postbox."

Commenting that she "couldn't be prouder" as High Sheriff for Co. Fermanagh, following the day of celebrations, Noelle said: "What a magical day.

"[We are a community] proud to collaborate. Heartfelt gratitude to all who participated. A very special thanks to Selwyn Johnston, Peter Scott RNLI, Rotary Club, Enniskillen BID, Joe Mahon and his wife Marie who prepared a feast for The Big Lunch Northern Ireland, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and to all of the volunteers and charities represented.

"I highly encourage everyone to consider embracing the possibility of becoming a volunteer regardless of age or stage in life. A rising tide lifts all boats.We have some of the best examples of volunteering championing excellent causes. So get connected, stay connected and celebrate life with compassion and kindness for yourself and others."

The Big Community Paddle, Picnic and Volunteer Village was supported by Enniskillen Bid, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Lough Erne Landscape Partnership (LELP), RNLI, Eden Project Communities and organised by local community, voluntary and charitable organisations.