A FESTIVAL organised to celebrate the best of Wimborne got off to a flying start at the weekend.

The week-long Wimborne 10 event was conceived at relatively short notice following the cancellation of the town’s popular food festival, which was postponed after running into funding troubles.

However, the new event – which is featuring some of the town’s best-loved businesses – has been hailed such a success that organisers are already planning a follow up Wimborne 10 for next year.

Organiser Jenny Brown, marketing and events manager for the town’s Business Improvement District (BID), said: “All the traders taking part have reported great sales and there’s been a real buzz in Wimborne, which is obviously great.”

Saturday marked the start of Wimborne 10, which included a host of restaurants, independent shops and attractions offering promotions themed around the number 10.

Demonstrations of cooking and tastings are set to take place throughout the week, while a host of businesses displaying the Wimborne 10 sticker will be offering special offers and promotions.

Jenny said: “Considering the short time that we had to arrange this, I’m quite confident that we will build on it for next year and it will be bigger and better and more successful for all the businesses in Wimborne.

“The small steering group that came up with the idea is already planning its adventure for next year, and it will be bigger and better.

“It’s all been positive vibes.”

Visitors can pick up a leaflet featuring information about the festival from participating businesses and the Tourist Information Centre.

Wimborne 10 runs until November 1.