CHADDESDEN residents breathed a huge sigh of relief when it was announced that the Big 1 event in Chaddesden would take place today.
Concerns were raised that the condition of the ground at Chaddesden Park after recent wet weather could have forced it to be cancelled.
But today the weather is set to be excellent, with temperatures of around 20C.
Around 20,000 people are expected to visit the event to be entertained by dog shows, dancing and international food.
Barbara Taylor, 61, chairman of the Friends of Chaddesden Park, said she was always confident the event would go ahead.
She said: "I never thought it would be off. It is a little bit soft underground but I'm sure, with a bit of wind, it will dry out.
"The people of Chaddesden are really looking forward to it, as always. There is a lot of excitement. It's great for the thousands of people who will come from far and wide.
"There is really easy access, which is helpful. It will be really good to show Chaddesden off."
An inspection of Chaddesden Park by Derby City Council's parks department, Derby Live and organisers Friends of Chaddesden Park took place last week and all agreed the event should go ahead.
Some of the events will be moved away from the cricket pitch to avoid damage to the square.
Last year, the event basked in beautiful weather, with a record 25,000 people attending.
Stalls and dog shows, along with live music and dance events entertained the crowd. The same events are expected at today's Big 1.
And the weather today couldn't be better - Derby is to be drenched in sunshine throughout today with temperatures reaching around 20C.Enjoy the weather while you can though, as tomorrow looks to be cloudy, showery and humid.
Emma Sharples, forecaster for the Met Office, said the weather would be perfect for the event.
She said: "People in Derbyshire woke up this morning to temperatures of around 17C.
"As the day draws on, clouds will build but there will still be lots of sunny spells and winds will be light."
Emma added: "Tonight will be very mild with temperatures of around 10C or 11C.
"After midnight there will be outbreaks of light, patchy rain which will continue through Monday.
"It will be much cooler, around 16C, but much more humid than today, so it won't feel that cold." STALLS, EXHIBITIONS AND DANCING
The Chaddesden Big 1 kicks off at 11am and finishes at 5pm today.
There are a range of different stalls and exhibitions from local charities and groups.
The organisers have also planned dance and live entertainment, including the international food arena.
Derby Telegraph photographer Geoff Merryweather will be at the event taking plenty of photos for you to see in the paper on tomorrow and online at www.derbytelegraph.co.uk.
Free entry.
