EXMOUTH residents, tourists, couples and families were among those who heaped praised on the success of this year s town festival.

EXMOUTH residents, tourists, couples and families were among those who heaped praised on the success of this year's town festival.

People of all ages flocked to the large number of events, most of which took place in sunny weather during the Bank Holiday weekend, ranging from music concerts through to activities for children.

The festival, managed by Exmouth Town Council, started last Thursday, May 21, and concludes on May 29.

Organiser Chris Woods, 25, said he was pleased with how successful the week had been.

"It is hard to identify one particular facet as the 'best bit' because at the end of the day it is a community festival," he added.

"It is supposed to be a collective mix where there is something for everyone. I personally like the events which take place in Manor Gardens because it is kind of a centrepiece-area.

"It is great to see loads of people sat on the lawns enjoying things taking place there, as they were at the weekend."

The festival, which was formed more than ten years ago, is funded by Exmouth Town Council. Business sponsors, which this year included Stagecoach, and Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, also invest money.

Rachel Poole, from Exmouth's Christians Together, worked in a children's marquee in Manor Gardens, where young people could take part in a number of different activities.

She said: "We had a jungle theme held; there were crafts going on, music, den-building and storytelling."

Rachel said that on just Saturday morning alone, 82 children attended the marquee.

Simone Fowler , 37, her husband Adrian, 43, and two children, Bethany, 6, and Marisa, 3, of Hartopp Road, Exmouth, also visited the events which were held at the festival.

"We all enjoyed ourselves," said Simone. "We come even when it is raining, but this year the good weather has made it extra special."

Ctimmone Warlow, of Ashleigh Road, Exmouth, said she particularly enjoyed the music played in Manor Gardens last Saturday, May 23.

The 37-year-old attended the festival with her children, Eddie, 6, and Milly, 3; husband David, 43, and Terry and Janet Warlow.

Ctimmone added: "The festival is a really good event for Exmouth. It's well worth coming down for."

Esther Wynn, 30, and her husband Lucien, 41, took their eleven-month-old son Edward to the festivities.

"We've definitely enjoyed ourselves. We came last year and this time round there has been a vast improvement," said Esther.

"The festival is the best event in the town - there is so much for everyone.

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