Exmouth Festival round-up

EXMOUTH'S annual festival has drawn to a close with organisers and visitors to the nine-day spectacle pleased with its success.

Blessed with fine weather throughout, the festival finished on Friday (June 4) after a fun-filled programme of entertainment.

Chris Woods, responsible for putting the event together, believed this year's was bigger and better than ever.

The 26-year-old said the number of people who attended had increased.

"The festival has reached a new level," he said. "I would like to thank people who came along and for those who helped make it happen.

"Putting it together was not just my effort. There have been more volunteers than ever before."

John Wokersien, Exmouth Town Council clerk, praised the work of Chris Woods for organising the nine-day bonanza.

He said: "He has put together a great balance of events which have appealed to people."

Mr Wokersien added: "Exmouth, as a community, really understands the festival now and people know when they come down to Manor Gardens they are going to have a good time. This will continue for future years.

"The festival itself is looking forward to occupying The Strand space so that not only will we have a great time in Manor Gardens but also in The Strand - something that has not been possible before."

Exmouth mayor Darryl Nicholas believed the festival once again was a superb event.

"It is growing each year - the highlight for me was seeing the Manor Gardens packed on a daily basis with local residents and visitors relaxing and having a great time.

"We need to make sure the momentum of this event continues and that it remains innovative and exciting. From next year The Strand will also form an exciting new performance venue and in the long run this will be great for the town and great for local businesses.