The Town Party, organised by the Ledbury Poetry Festival, attracted crowds in excess of 1,000 on Saturday.

The High Street came alive to the sounds of salsa band, Raices Cubanas, who made sure their audience celebrated in style.

The word on the street was that this was the most enjoyable Town Party to date.

Festival manager Dr Charles Bennett said: "I can't say either way because this is my first festival!

"But everyone enjoyed a blissful evening and it was pleasing to see so many children attending, and moving round the High Street in complete safety."

Under the guidance of festival director Peter Arscott, the festival doubled the number of marshals this year, from six to twelve, to ensure the smooth running of the event for young and old alike.

The High Street was closed off to traffic for the celebration, and many businesses such as the Spar supermarket did a roaring trade as crowds poured in.

Dr Bennett said: "I do know a number of businesses made the effort to reap the reward of the crowds and had a late opening.

"I was also pleased to see the number of stalls in the High Street."

Dr Bennett had special praise for the Black Pepper Carvery, which put chairs outside to create "a continental mood'.

He urged other business to think along similar lines for next year.

At £2,500 to stage, Ledbury's Town Party is the most expensive event staged each year by the Festival, and is strongly supported in sponsorship by local businesses.

Dr Bennett said: "We make no money from it and I wish to just say thank you to the local businesses who help us to raise the cash.

"We hope to have an even more stupendous event next year!"