IT promised to raise the bar – and it did not disappoint.

Bridport Folk Festival returned to town at the weekend, showcasing a huge variety of music and dance.

As west Dorset basked in sunshine, Bridport was buzzing with folk lovers enjoying a diverse range of musical talent.

Organiser Chris Deacon says he is delighted with the ‘encouragement and kind words of the people of Bridport’ and has thanked volunteers for doing a ‘stupendous’ job over the three-day festival, which introduced more stages this year.

“It’s been a labour of love,” said Mr Deacon. “The music was great, the artists were superb and there was a real feel-good buzz about the place. The whole festival had a wonderful feel.

“It’s been said our festival is one of the friendliest and we just hope everyone enjoyed themselves.”

Performers took to Bucky Doo, the Borough Gardens, Millennium Green and many pubs across town, before headline slots at the Arts Centre and Electric Palace.

The Arts Centre welcomed folk legend Julie Felix, who has graced stages all over the world, in a double headline bill with festival patron Reg Meuross.

Bristol-based folk fusion band Karsilama impressed the crowd at the Electric Palace with their Balkan/Klezma party atmosphere.

Dance and music workshops also took place across the weekend, as well as organised dances, both formal and social.

And the festival drew to a close on Sunday, when South Street was closed for a full procession of more than 200 dancers.

Organisers are still counting proceeds from this year’s festival and they will go to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, The Living Tree and Cupboard Love.