THE 10 Parishes Festival ended in style with sell-out audiences at concerts in Wiveliscombe, Milverton and Raddington, as well as continued visits to the artist open studios.

A new open event this year was the two-part Photomarathon. Entrants on the first Saturday of the festival were asked to take eight photos, of eight themes in eight hours.

Wellington resident Viv Knighton organised the Photomarathon and was delighted with the interest shown.

Viv said: “The competition is all about fun and it was good to see participants smiling as they returned with their entries.

“You don’t have to be a fantastic photographer for this, just have an eye for interpretation and ideas.

“I am very grateful to the two judges, Nicky Saunter and Alain Lockyer.”

The final weekend saw a display of the entries in Wiveliscombe Community Hall. The overall winner was Geoff Bayliss from Oakford, near Bampton, and runner-up was Chris Alexander from Taunton.

Festival director Pauline Homeshaw said: “We were delighted with the involvement with all aspects of the festival this year.

“The unseasonal weather did not seem to

affect visitor numbers at the many studios and events throughout and we are grateful

to the community for embracing the festival so enthusiastically.”