Celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the Museum of East Anglian Life included a cake competition and behind-the-scenes tours.

Stowmarket Mercury: 50th anniversary party for the Museum of East Anglian Life. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.50th anniversary party for the Museum of East Anglian Life. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

The party on July 23 at the Stowmarket museum was one of a number of events to take place to mark the milestone.

Activities included baking a birthday cake inspired by the museum, traditional games such as a coconut shy and people could dress up as their favourite historical character.

There was also music from three brass bands, a tug of war competition and special tours of the Abbot’s Hall attic.

Chloe Brett, marketing officer for the museum, said the day had been “great” despite the rain.

Stowmarket Mercury: Darren Dorrdoy and Lisa Harris at the open day. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Darren Dorrdoy and Lisa Harris at the open day. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

“Over the course of the day well over 100 [turned out] and all of our volunteers came and trustees and members,” she added. “We wanted to have a day to really celebrate it.”

She said the winning cake was a “superb” replica of the Shaun the Sheep character.

Stowmarket Mercury: Ellie Barthow. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Ellie Barthow. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

Stowmarket Mercury: Michael Pickett and Jo Rooks. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Michael Pickett and Jo Rooks. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

Stowmarket Mercury: Pinky the Printer. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Pinky the Printer. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

Stowmarket Mercury: Jenny Cousins, manager. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Jenny Cousins, manager. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.