The annual Yarty Party Festival recently brought some much-needed music and merriment to the market town of Axminster.

Early on Friday, July 16, Axminster Showground woke to a steady stream of festival-goers and campers preparing to enjoy the fine weather.

After 16 months of restrictions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the atmosphere was undoubtedly full of positivity and saw headliners Ratrace, Gypsy Hill and Psychadelephant appear on three different music stages.

Blimey Oh Riley, Joanna Cooke and Mischa and his Merry Men joined the lineup at the 'Big Top', while a host of talented local musicians from the Howl Open Mic with Elijah Wood, Hannah Trim and Emsickle graced the 'Busk Stop' stage.

In 'The Dave', first class Ibiza DJ Nick Coles, DJ Creature Craig and Gav Quiet played sets alongside up and coming talent including Rendah, Norton, Colossal and Bevvs.

Event organisers Kara and Paul Burrough, and Dave and Emma Moore, said: "What a weekend! The eclectic mix of bands, artists and DJs were all outstanding.

"However, none of this would be possible without the hard work and dedication of the entire Yarty Party crew who donate their time and skills to ensure the festival takes place. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

The site was provided by kind permission of the Burrough family and special thanks go to the Axe Vale Show for its contributions. Red Elephant Group Ltd delivered site security, North Somerset Ambulance Services catered for all things medical, while RBS Scaffolding built the Big Top stage.

Hayley Widger spoke on behalf of the Axminster Neighbourhood Police Team who attended for community engagement.

She said: "It was a great family event and very well organised."

Kara Burrough added: "There's a fantastic community spirit here in Axminster. If you could bottle it, we would! We believe the Yarty Party Festival is an extension of the community spirit we've got in our town."

With this in mind, free trader pitches were given to local Axminster businesses and a free tea tent provided to Pippins Community Centre.

Deputy Mayor of Axminster, Andrea Sedgwick attended along with Pippins' volunteers, and said: "We were thrilled to be asked to serve tea, coffee, squash and cakes. We raised over £500 towards the restoration project for the windows in our Grade II listed community centre on Lyme Road."

Axminster's county councillor Ian Hall added: "One word- amazing! Axminster got its smiles back last week and it was lovely to see so many incredibly happy faces enjoying a bit of freedom.

"I understand free admission was given to our fantastic medical team in Axminster who have worked tirelessly to help daily and give us our jabs. Special thanks to the organisers who 'dug in' and delivered this happy event for our community."

Finally, Axminster Care Service, who are ongoing beneficiaries of the festival, and the Axminster Christmas Dinner appeal, held annually in The Guildhall will receive cheques in due course.

To purchase Early Bird tickets for 2022, head to www.yartyparty.co.uk