THE third West Malvern Arts Festival has been hailed a success by organisers despite a wet and windy start.

More than 70 artists set up displays at 14 locations around the village between Regents Theological College and the Brewers Arms pub.

Their work included glasswork, paintings, garden sculpture, silversmithing, weaving, tapestry pictures and ceramics, with many pieces for sale.

Dru Bentley, of the festival committee, said: “There was a noticeable increase in the number of visitors when the weather improved.

“Visitors always remark on the friendly, relaxed atmosphere in the village during the festival and love the fact that there is free entry for all.

“The artists, too, appreciate the informality of the event where they can meet fellow artists and groups, as well as the public.”

The event is run as a fundraiser for the Malvern Hills Community Foundation and also included a vintage vehicle cavalcade, music, a heritage display in St James’s Church, a mobile singing group, as well as barbecues and the specially-brewed Arty Pharty ale from Malvern Hills Brewery.

The festival committee will soon turn their attention to next year’s festival, which is set to run from Friday to Sunday, August 16-18.

For more information, go to westmalvernarts.org.