Festival goers reclaim the streets in Bearwood
They stopped the traffic and claimed the streets as thousands flocked to take part in an outdoor festival of music, theatre, food and crafts.
Yesterday's(MON) first Bearwood Street Festival has already been declared a success by local councillor Steve Eling.
"The atmosphere was great, there were masses of people and lots of good acts on the stage," he said. "Everyone there was enjoying themselves and there is no doubt that the festival was a huge success."
Musicians entertained the crowds from a stage set up outside The Bear pub at one end of Bearwood Road, which was closed off to traffic.
There were also street theatre performers, food stalls, an indoor market and games for the children.
Highly Sprung Performance Company, which specialises in projects aimed at young people, set up a theatre trail in the town, leading visitors on a journey through Bearwood’s past, present and future.
Fiona Pitt, Bearwood Street Festival organiser, said they had had a 'fantastic response' since first mooting the idea. She said: "The High Street has had a decline in recent years and now we want to help bring it back to life and get different businesses helping us out."
More than 30 stalls were laid out and dozens of volunteers came forward to help the day go without a hitch.
Councillor Eling said: "You always take a risk with the weather with these outdoor events but, apart from a stiff breeze, the weather held out for us."
