THE BRIDPORT Folk Festival went ahead this weekend and saw around 6,000 people enjoying music and dancing throughout Bridport.
As is to be expected of any festival taking place during the pandemic, there was some last minute chopping and changing
Two of the event's headline acts had to withdraw after saw a band member test positive for Covid-19, whilst two members of another band were 'pinged' after coming into contact with someone with the virus.
Still the show went on and organisers say the festival was a great success, with those in attendance estimated to be between 5,000 and 6,000 people.
Organiser of the festival, Chris Deacon, said: "The feedback was great, everyone was buzzing and giving rave reviews.
"People have said what a fantastic event it was and what an incredible thing to bring to Bridport.
"These events never run entirely smoothly and there was obviously some blips but we've had so much positive feedback. Biggest challenge I've personally had with the festival, with all the restrictions in place and the uncertainties.
"It's the biggest challenge I've had so far, with all the restrictions in place and the uncertainties, but it was a fantastic weekend."
This year's festival raised funds for the Burrough Harmony Centre, which offers support, information and a variety of enjoyable activities to local people who are living with a mental health problem.
The highlights of the weekend were two shows at Bridport Town Hall and at Mountfield. Friday's show at the town hall was headlined by Kent-based four-piece band, Open Water and Mitchell and Vincent, who stepped in last minute after Antoine and Owena had to cancel.
There was also music throughout the town over the three days at Bucky Doo Square, the Millennium Green, and Burrough Gardens. In addition to this, morris dancing groups performed throughout the town.
Saturday's show at Mountfield was headlined by Quinns Quinney and Gadarene. The event was originally scheduled for the Electric Palace, but was moved due to ticket sales being lower than expected.
Mr Deacon said:"Gadarene played on the green and then we managed to swing the audience round to face the marquee where Quinns Quinney were set up. It was an absolutely stonking night of music, it was brilliant. People loved it, it went down an absolute storm.
"We had so many fantastic bands playing over the weekend. The whole thing was supported initially by funding raised by the local musicians busking."
He added: "The team we had were so superb throughout the entire weekend. It doesn't matter which bands you book or what you plan, nothing happens without the volunteers.
"The town council was incredible in the support given to us the whole way through the festival and building up to it.
"We also want to thank all the musicians, dancers and everyone who ran the workshops."
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