THE Quomps hosted hundreds of music lovers of all ages at the annual Christchurch Festival at the weekend.

The revelry kicked off on Friday night with music from Lighthouse Bands and Voodoo Vegas, while on Saturday headliners Galahad – who tour extensively in Europe and North America – were supported by Boscombe Ukulele Social, the Blues Machine, Red Crow, Wonky Donkeys and Funkaholics, among others.

There were refreshments and other forms of entertainment in the town, including a dancing festival with folk groups and belly dancers, and on Sunday the Coda Folk Orchestra, Led Free, The Southern Companion and more entertained the crowds before Lady Winwood’s Maggot brought the festival to a lively end.

Organiser Dyrck Lamble said on Sunday: “It has been very good this year, I would say we have had about 2,000 people attending today.

“The sun has been shining for most of the weekend as well and there is a good atmosphere. It is very much a family festival and we have people here aged from two to 102 – exactly how we want it to be.”

He thanked sponsors Absolute Music and Chritax Taxis. Profits made by the festival go to the Mayor’s charities, which this year include the Royal British Legion Christchurch Branch, Dorset Cancer Centre and Somerford Arc.

“Over the last few years we have donated over £20,000,” added Mr Lamble.

“It is a bit unclear how long the festival has been running exactly, but next year we are planning on making it our 20th anniversary celebration.

“We would like to find a very good reggae band and also a very good punk band for next year, of course, volunteers to help out back stage are always needed.”

Visit the festival website at christchurchfestival.co.uk to find more information or for details on how to get involved.