Spring Festival fun to pump millions into Ludlow

About 8,000 people are expected in Ludlow this weekend for the town's Spring Festival, pumping millions of pounds into the local economy.

Hotel rooms have been booked six months in advance of the two-day event, and early ticket sales have increased 120 per cent on last year.

Organisers said the festival's size and reputation has doubled year on year, with pre-event ticket bookings on course to hit 1,000 by Saturday.

The festival, which takes place at Ludlow Castle and finishes on Sunday, is now in its fourth year.

Operations director Beth Heath said the festival will give the stagnating local economy a much-needed shot in the arm.

She said: "I would not like to put an estimate on how much money the Spring Festival generates but it will be in the millions.

"We originally started the festival as a way to kick off the festival season in Ludlow but now it has grown into its own unique event quite different to anything in the country because of the combination of different things going on.

"We have sold 120 per cent more tickets than last year and Ludlow Rugby Club already has 60 pitches booked for campers, the first year we have done this.

"Last year we had 400 tickets pre-booked and 5,000 people came through the castle gates. This year with about 1,000 tickets pre-booked we hope 8,000 will turn out."

Mrs Heath said estimates showed that the Ludlow Festival brought more than £5 million extra into the town.

The Spring Festival features food producers, local suppliers and classic cars on show in the castle. Carole Clayton, president of Ludlow Chamber of Trade, said it would bring in thousands of tourists.

For further information on the festival visit www.springevent.org.uk