KINDRED spirits floated towards a countryside field for a calming weekend of meditation and music.

Minds were quietened in Nuneham Courtenay as spiritual festival Peace in the Park began, offering sanctuary outside The Global Retreat Centre.

Co-organiser and sculptor Wendy Marshall, who uses the centre as a base for her artwork, said: "It's an incredibly peaceful place – maybe one of the most peaceful places on Earth – with stunning ancient historical grounds. There are talks and meditation and lovely live music with arts and performances, all coming from that space of wanting to make the world a better place.

"The news cycle is so full of negativity and despair and people really want to feel they are in a place where people really want to have hope and do something practical. It's a peaceful space where you can learn to start to forgive and be a bit more tolerant."

The three-day event, which ends today, sees festival-goers enjoy meditation sessions, family activities in an enchanted forest, talks addressing some of life's most pressing problems, and a host of musical acts.

Merseyside resident Ms Marshall, 57, said crowds "battled with the elements" on Saturday as stormy conditions set in, but said the forecast today should better match bright moods.

She added: "People were of a sunny disposition despite the drizzle and thunder and lightning."

Events included the Big Conversation with sculptor Ginger Gilmour, the first wife of Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour.