THE curtain has down on this year s Exmouth Festival but the spirit of the event still resonates in the heart of two people who work in the town. Chris Woods, who organised the week-long programme, and mayor Darryl Nicholas, are already keen to repeat the

THE curtain has down on this year's Exmouth Festival but the spirit of the event still resonates in the heart of two people who work in the town.

Chris Woods, who organised the week-long programme, and mayor Darryl Nicholas, are already keen to repeat the success of 2009's festivities next year.

Reflecting on the event which started on Thursday, May 21, and concluded last Friday, May 29, twenty-five-year-old Chris joked: "It was quite a crazy nine days.

"Now that I've got time to sit down and analyse things, I'm starting to appreciate more how successful it was."

The festival, designed to appeal to the taste of all its visitors, included activities for children, music concerts and educational workshops," said Chris.

"Its success will act as a springboard for next year to be even better.

"One of the problems the festival has had in the past is its reputation and making people aware of it. But, every year it has grown.

"I don't necessarily think it has to get bigger because it is already a large-scale event compared to other festivals but it can certainly improve further."

Cllr Darryl Nicholas said he was extremely pleased with its success.

He added: "I don't think we have seen Exmouth so busy - not only on the beach and in Manor Gardens but the town centre traders told me that there was an increase in trade around there.

"I don't think we have had a week like it for the sheer volume of people in the area.

"I think for now we are in a position with the festival that we are really happy and would like to cement that for a few years as opposed to changing things dramatically.

"It is just a case of carrying the momentum on. Chris (Woods) has done a great job in organising the event.