Festival pulls in record numbers

Spokeswoman Beth Cohen said today: "It was the biggest and best yet by far. We far exceeded last year's attendance although we don't have the official figures just yet.

"The weather really helped us out, it was just perfect. The whole weekend ran so smoothly, with no problems, which I suppose is surprising given the numbers of people that attended."

More than 1,600 sausages were sold during the popular Sausage Trail on Saturday and more than 600 beer lovers took part in the Ale Trail.

Miss Cohen said: "Both events were sold out by 11am on Saturday morning. This year we also did a chip shop trail which was really popular and we will be looking to do more events around the town next year.

"The road closures really worked well for us on Saturday because it gave people more space and freedom to enjoy the various stalls. We will definitely be looking to do this again next year."

Other events on Saturday included The Festival Loaf trail, the Waiter's Race, and A Taste of Normandy with students and teachers from Ludlow's French twin town La Ferte-Mace in Normandy.

TV gardening guru Monty Don and David Chantler also gave a talk on the controversial project running on a farm near Leominster, involving young offenders.

And yesterday visitors to the town were treated to a fresh herb market, cheese sampling, a Slow Food Sunday brunch demonstration and cake decorating displays.

A Young Chefs Contest took place with Alex Pettit, of Aymestrey declared the winner, followed by runner-up Robert Morgan of The Clive, Ludlow.

One of the festival's organisers, Councillor Graeme Perks said he was delighted with the weekend.

He said: "The town was busy, the castle itself was busy and the weather was pleasant."

By Sally Jones

Popular stories:

• Drugs brothers cleared of charges
• News blog - reporter avoided speeding ticket by crying
• Dining Out archive
• Roof-top rescue for trapped dog
• Chris Humphrey grabs opportunity with both hands