BUMPER crowds ensured the Swanage Folk Festival marked its 21st anniversary in style this year.

Thousands of folk fans attended the event, which took place at various venues throughout Swanage over the weekend.

As in previous years, one of the festival’s highlights was the colourful dance procession which went from Prince Albert Gardens to the seafront on Sunday.

One of the event organisers, Steve Parker, told the Daily Echo: “Everything went well – we’ve had some good concerts, the field has been busy and there were a lot of dancers down in the town.

“Hopefully, everyone will have had a great time.”

Performers such as Little Johnny England, Jez Lowe & The Bad Pennies, Vin Garbutt and Kimber’s Men were set to perform this year.

Venues included the main marquee in Sandpit Field, The Mowlem Theatre, the Conservative Club and St Mary’s Church.

Hundreds of morris dancers attended the three-day festival, which boasted a range of activities including a ceilidh, a craft show and trade stalls at the ‘festival village’.

Coupled with the Swanage Steam Gala, Swanage traders reported decent trade throughout the event.

Many of Swanage’s pubs and restaurants backed the festival, offering music in the evenings.

Festival profits will be split between local charities and the festival fund.