AN Elgar-themed festival that combined classical music, cycling and crafts was so successful delighted organisers are planning an even bigger one next year.

Last week's Elgar Fringe Festival was organised to coincide with the official Elgar Festival - but aimed at people who would not normally be interested in the music of the famous composer.

The town was left "buzzing" by events including a bicycle race up the town's slopes (Elgar was a keen cyclist) at which the town's Commonwealth gold medal cyclist Liam Killeen was guest of honour.

There was also a cycling and skateboarding competition, an arts and crafts market and music and theatre workshops.

Council arts development officer Manda Graham, who estimated 5,000 people flocked to the town between Wednesday and Saturday, said: "It was a huge success. The town was absolutely buzzing, the car parks were full and so many people went away inspired by what was organised."

Now Malvern Fringe Arts, which worked with Worcestershire-based English Symphony Orchestra and Malvern Hills District Council to put on the Fringe events, is talking about another festival next year to mark the 150th anniversary of Sir Edward's birth on June 2, 1857.

Ms Graham said the idea would be to involve the whole town and get organisations such as Malvern Theatres behind it to ensure it goes off with a bang. She added: "If a small group such as Malvern Fringe Arts can pull together this type of festival, think what the whole of Malvern can do."

Alison King, ESO's general manager, said the Elgar Festival itself had also proved a huge success, with more than 2,000 people attending the concerts.

The festival, organised by the ESO, featured four classical concerts in Malvern and Worcester.

Ms King said: "It was absolutely marvellous and there was a really special atmosphere, with everyone turning out to support the ESO."

Anyone interested in getting involved in preparations for next year's festival can contact Manda Graham on 01684 862312.