RECORD numbers of people turned out for a buzzing Wimborne Folk Festival.

Bustling crowds filled the market town on Saturday as residents and visitors alike made the most of the sunshine and watched the famous annual parade. Revellers joined in with the Morris dancing, and there was plenty of singing in the streets – spontaneously and at free music workshops.

Organisers Maria Bisp and her husband Brian, who set up the unique celebration 31 years ago, were delighted with the jolly atmosphere.

Mrs Bisp said: “Everything has been brilliant. Saturday was just a wonderful day.

“I would say we reached record numbers of people. For the procession, the amount of people in the town was absolutely fantastic.

“I think I’ve maybe only seen it this busy once before.”

Fifty-two teams of dancers came from across the country to take part.

“Three teams called up on Sunday to make their apologies because of the weather,” Mrs Bisp said.

“We never cancel the events, but leave it up to people to decide whether they will turn out.”

Sunday’s town centre market was running at about half its usual size due to the rain, but ticket sales for the Allendale Centre concerts saw a boom, she added.

Town crier Chris Brown was feeling a little hoarse from his noisy role in the festivities, also featuring Ceilidh and Appalachian dancing.

“There were some lovely people around,” Mr Brown said.

“Everybody was in the party spirit. The Folkie Fringe at the White Hart pub was at capacity. It was just great.”

Children’s entertainers Ticklish Allsorts and Krazy Kev kept youngsters giggling all weekend.

Irish and English music sessions at the Pudding & Pye and the Royal British Legion, plus reduced rates at the Priest’s House Museum and Wimborne Model Town, proved how it has become a whole-town event.

Town mayor Councillor Robin Cook said he was pleased funding doubts had been overcome.

“Anyone who thought the festival was on the wane would have thought twice on Saturday,” Cllr Cook said.

“Wimborne was packed with people.

“I was approached by a number of visitors from completely outside the area who said how welcome Wimborne had made them feel. That’s tremendous news and an important message.”

He praised Dorset Police for their “first class” coverage and East Dorset District council’s street cleaners.