Big Lunch coincides with town’s Big Launch

The event included a day-long programme of live music as well as entertainment and refreshments.

A late addition to the packed bill was Doncaster’s own singer, songwriter and comedian Steve Womack, a former pupil at Edlington Comprehensive School, whose performance was described as having “cracking tunes and dry wit.”

Mayor of Doncaster Peter Davies added: “This was a real coup.

“Steve is a superb and well-known entertainer, born and bred in Doncaster.”

The new square is part of the first phase of the controversial £300m Civic and Cultural Quarter project, to revamp the formerly run-down Waterdale area of the town.

It has been named after Sir Nigel, the Doncastrian railway pioneer who designed the Flying Scotsman and the Mallard.

Meanwhile, Rotherham’s All Saints Square was transformed on Saturday for an all-day street party.

The 1950s-themed event featured attractions included tea dances, a steam train and a parade of classic cars.