THIS year's West Fest was one of the best ever, with a record crowd enjoying rock, folk and blues music under the hot summer sun and into Saturday evening.

Final figures are not yet in, but organisers hope that the popular event has this year has raised up to £6,000 which will be distributed to good causes in the Malvern area.

The event, which has become a regular high point of the summer calendar in Malvern, featured an eclectic roster of performers, plus plenty of fun activities to keep the younger festival-goers happy, all located at West Malvern's playing field off Old Hollow.

Tony Poyner, a member of the organising committee, said: "One of my favourites on the bill were Quarter Stone, who got the event off to a great start. Over on the acoustic stage, Lounge Toad was a great favourite with the audience.

"We think it was a record crowd, beating last year's total of 2,500, and we're hoping it will leave us with between £5,000 and £6,000 to distribute.

"I want to say a big thank-you to the committee and volunteers who made the day a great success."

Paul White, another member of the committee said: "Once again, there was plenty of great music, with some of the highlights being Barry Cuda and the Sharks, Groovyhead playing Texas blues and Fatty Mango, with their reggae/African slant.

"Some of the best acts on the acoustic stage included Kings and Folk, Fiddler's Two and the the Carol Lee Sampson Band, who played extremely well."

Another popular attraction was the Dakin Diversity Stage, where the entertainment included community groups such as the Ladybirds, Willows Nursery and children from the St James Primary School, as well as 4Front Theatre Group, West Malvern Voices and the ever popular silent disco.

As is by now traditional, festival-goers refreshed themselves with West Fest Ale, created specially for the event by the Malvern Hills Brewery, while the local WI laid on teas. Food available on the site ranged from a hog roast to veggie and vegan world cuisine.

Proceeds from the festival are used to support local charities and community groups, and West Fest organisers are now inviting applications from interested parties. To find out more, contact John Brooks at john@west-fest.org.uk.