Inside the "bigger and better" Bournemouth Vegan Festival

The event, which was “bigger and better” than any other event held before, featured a room full of entirely vegan food – even the clothes were vegan. 

Around 1,000 people attended the one-day event at Citygate in Holdenhurst Road – from vegans to meat eaters.  

Co-organiser Dean Bracher explained that all stalls present at the festival had to commit to being entirely vegan at the event in order to get a spot. 

Read more: "Bigger" Bournemouth Vegan Festival returns this weekend

Stalls were from all round the country, with some being manned from abroad to demonstrate the “welcoming and inclusive” culture of veganism. 

Speaking with the Echo, Dean said: “We run about 15 events per year and we are here not just for vegans and vegetarians, but for meat eaters too.  

“We are very inclusive to anyone from all cultures and religions. It’s a celebration of veganism and ethics for animals.” 

Vegan clothes

The festival isn’t just about food – there is clothing (they can be vegan from using “ethical printers” and is “Fairtrade and organic”) as well as vegan soaps and perfumes. 

“The benefits of veganism are numerous. It’s beneficial to the billions of farmed animals worldwide and in this country,” Dean added. 

“In terms of human ethics, it’s compassionate. And it is also good for the environment.” 

Steve and Melissa Ferrett

One stall at the festival was Bognor Regis-based Vegan Muscle Gym Wear, run by couple Steve and Melissa Ferrett. They both eat a vegan diet, which, they say, helps them stay it. Steve said: “I wish I went vegan sooner.” 

Food at the event wasn't just salads and vegetables - there was also vegan alternatives to junk food, inclduing hot dogs, doughnuts and burgers.