A BOURNEMOUTH festival dedicated to the arts finished in a burst of colour and music on Saturday night.

The 2017 Arts by the Sea Festival featured eight days of performances, shows, exhibitions and installations.

It ended with a parade through the town centre at the weekend.

Visitors who turned out in spite of Storm Brian were treated to poetry and storytelling by puppeteers Dundu, as well as a drumming performance by Worldbeaters Music.

There was also a sell-out family race at The Old Fire Station, multimedia experience AQUA:SONC at St Peter’s Church and an environmental talk at the Bournemouth Natural Science Society.

A ‘litterbugs creation’ workshop took place at Bournemouth Library, and SoFar Sounds took over the bandstand in the Lower Gardens for a late-evening spoken word session.

Councillor Pat Oakley, Bournemouth council portfolio holder for tourism, leisure and the arts, said: “The festival was a huge triumph for Bournemouth, its economy and the general cultural well-being of residents and visitors alike.

“An enormous amount of talent was on show over eight days, which was enjoyed by thousands of people of all ages in the sunshine, at night and even in the storms of the final day.

“I am really looking forward to this festival growing year on year and bringing annual fun, joy and happiness to our very creative town.

“None of this would have been possible without the herculean efforts and support of everyone involved.”

The theme of this year’s festival was ‘plastic beach’.

Volunteers behind the festival aimed to highlight marine pollution through the performances on offer. Creative producer Roxy Robinson said: “The turnout was exceptional, with upwards of 100,000 festival-goers enjoying the rich mix of street art, light art installations, walkabout, theatre and parades.

“The newly-launched Fringe festival was also enjoyed by many, and will no doubt continue to grow. “

Roxy told the Echo: “I am delighted to be continuing work with Bournemouth Borough Council to deliver the festival in 2018, and look forward to building on what has been a fantastic event this year.”

The dates for the 2018 will be announced in the coming weeks.