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

East Anglian Daily Times: 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.

East Anglian Daily Times: 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.

East Anglian Daily Times: Ellie Barthow. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Ellie Barthow. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

East Anglian Daily Times: Michael Pickett and Jo Rooks. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Michael Pickett and Jo Rooks. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

East Anglian Daily Times: Pinky the Printer. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Pinky the Printer. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.

East Anglian Daily Times: Jenny Cousins, manager. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.Jenny Cousins, manager. Picture: SEANA HUGHES.