'I went to Shrewsbury Food Festival for the first time and this is why I was impressed'

I was blown away by how the Quarry gardens were transformed into different areas of entertainment, and with how well organised the county town's event was.

It's clear from my experience that there's more to it than just 'food and drink'.

Although there's hundreds of food and drink businesses selling their wonderful produce, there's so much more to it.

Immediately you're struck by the sound of singing and sight of dancing. The live music really sets the scene.

Upon arrival I said "woah", because as I had been told, Shrewsbury Food Festival is no ordinary, or typical, festival of its kind.

Beforehand I had faced the same struggles as many, travelling and parking. This was the only downfall and negative experience of the festival.

It's no surprise that the event is so popular, however the town really seems to feel the effect. With roadworks in place and everyone heading in the same direction, frustration for me grew by the minute as I did my best to reach a spot to park.

I went for Frankwell car park that sits alongside the River Severn, and as it said on the notice boards about every parking site in the town, it was full.

Vehicles of all kinds roamed around searching for a space, and for anyone who was leaving. And, as I was greeted by motorhomes parked at the site, it became evident that people travel from afar for the event.

After 10 minutes of searching, I was extremely fortunate to stumble on a space being vacated, but just when I thought my worries were over, I was thrown a curveball by the parking meters.

Visitors and local residents were left baffled by the machines that are used to pay for parking as they refused to take cash and declined card payments.

As one woman said to me: "You spend so long looking for a space and then when you get one, you can't even pay for your parking."

Eventually, after several attempts to pay for parking - just like everyone before me - I secured a ticket and headed for the Quarry.

Town was busy, and had a great atmosphere. People were in the party mood.

And, you didn't have to wait long to get into the festival either. A well-organised entrance point enabled bags to be promptly checked and you were inside the site quickly thanks to the numerous stations with people waiting to check tickets.

'Rolling in the River' blazed from the speakers minutes after I entered, the live music and bands went down a treat.

Fittingly with the new controversial sculpture in the Dingle garden, the festival was a sea of colour, as well as people in groups of all sizes, pets, and more.

I was impressed by the food and drink that was on offer, be it drinks from local breweries to locally-made food. There was something for everyone at the festival.

The classic tractors were a cool attraction, and the fun that's available for families was mega. The festival does well to cater for people of all ages with their offerings.

I saw a large amount of people enjoy a live demonstration from Shrewsbury Gin before turning in the opposite direction to see local Morris dancers and a family circus.

Queues for stalls were deep and long, but it seemed worth the wait for the people enjoying their purchases. I was easily satisfied by my one-scoop of Belgian chocolate ice cream inside a waffle cone that came from Shropshire Ice Cream's stylish van.

Business was booming for producer's who had travelled from close and far - which was pleasing to see - and the weather certainly helped to make it a great day for all.

I left with the feeling that Shrewsbury Food Festival is well-run, well-organised, and full of fun for all. It's a great day out, and an experience I look forward to again.