THIS year’s Bewdley Festival has been hailed the “best ever” by organisers, with thousands of people flocking to a range of sell-out events.

Carole Swingler, one of the organisers, said: “We say the same thing every year but I do genuinely think this year was the best so far.

“We thought we could never match the success of last year but I think we have improved on it.

“We are all exhausted now it has finished but we are thrilled to bits.”

The 10-day festival concluded on Sunday with a jazz church service held at St Anne’s Church.

The main events came to an end on Saturday night at The Ramada Hotel, with a rousing performance by rhythm and blues outfit, King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys.

The audience at The Ramada on Friday was treated to an evening of anecdotes from Inspector Morse creator, Colin Dexter.

Mr Dexter told stories of his time spent with the late actor John Thaw and also answered people’s questions on his life and work.

The rest of the festival’s diverse attractions ranged from a stand-up show by writer and broadcaster, Andy Hamilton, to a classical performance by glamorous duo, The Operababes.

There was also a host of daytime events, featuring a talk by director of wildlife at West Midland Safari Park, Bob Lawrence and a family show on Severn Valley Railway.

Mrs Swingler continued: “Every single event has been better than anticipated. All the performers have been on top form and the audiences have been brilliant.

“They had a big part to play in the festival’s success because every night, when the artists came out on stage, they got a roar of welcome, which helped them to raise their game.

“We will have a few weeks off before we start planning for next year to be better than ever,” she added.