Whitchurch Blackberry Fair pulls in the crowds - with pictures and video

From the early hours, last minute preparations were under way for the annual event, which is now in its 10th year.

Organisers were hoping for dry weather and, despite winds, the rain clouds stayed away.

They had promised this would be the best fair to date and it was just that for those who came to the town’s High Street to hear the live music, indulge in some street theatre and watch the Carnival of Plenty parade.

And amid the singing, theatre and mayhem, more than a dozen contemporary poets battled it out live on stage to be named the 2017 Blackberry Fair Poetry Champion.

Earlier this year, organisers raised almost £1,000 in a crowdfunding campaign to ensure the event could continue to be free for all those watching.

The fair is financed by donations, local business support and a number of small grants and costs approximately £12,000 to stage.

Organiser Steve Chapman, who had been up since 3am arranging the day, said he was delighted with the turn out and it appeared that everyone was having a good time.

“We have had a good few thousand come along, which has been great,” said Mr Chapman. “There was a great, ambient atmosphere. With everything that is going on in our world today, there is space for this type of event.

“It is hard work and takes a year to organise but when you see how much everyone enjoys it, it makes it all worthwhile.

“The Blackberry Fair embraces the spirit of positive action, sustainability and working together. It is all about bringing art to the people, facing an issue and finding a positive way through.”

There were four main stages and two acoustic stages which hosted the live bands and poetry slams. Highlights of the weekend included the Urban Astronaut – courtesy of Highly Sprung Theatre – featuring an actor who flew 20 feet up in the air, Mary and the Mudlarks, Blowzone and Dave Lock and Gary Northeast, who have been regulars at the fair since its early days.

Along with the street theatre, there were street performers, dance, music from riot jazz to steel pan and folk, there were displays and stalls as well as food and drink stands.

“It has gone really well,” added Mr Chapman said Steve. “Everyone had a brilliant time. Now the preparations begin for next year’s event.”