AN annual Hampshire arts festival put on a show for thousands over the bank holiday weekend.

The Totton and Eling Arts Festival at Hanger Farm is organised by local volunteers who want to make the arts accessible to everyone.

The event, now in its third year, features live music, dance and theatre groups inside Hanger Farm Arts Centre – an 18th century converted barn – and in its outdoor space.

Food was available from locally sourced providers and there was an arts and crafts market focusing on handmade products, with more than 40 gazebos.

Crowds flocked to see performers Big Noise Samba Band, and throughout the day there were stilt walkers and roaming acts including a monkey and Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Simon Chadwick, local illustrator and author, read stories from his latest book and showed his illustration skills throughout the day, even raffling off his artwork for the festival.

At the arts centre, musicians Steve Lowis, Lucy Smith, acoustic duo South Set and Empty Frets played throughout the afternoon to crowds.

Even Totton and Eling Tennis Centre got involved with the creative fun allowing pre-schools and nurseries to decorate the tennis courts railings and providing free tennis to festival visitors.

Allison Caddell, one of the organisers, said: “We had around 2,500 people over the course of the day in the main field and up at the arts centre.

“This year there was lots of public involvement - as well as having the performances we encouraged the public to take part, such as with drumming and hula-hooping.”

“Our art exhibition featured around 40 pieces of work by local artists and aimed to give them a spotlight.

“The main thing about the day is that it’s free entertainment and well supported by the local community. People give up their time and skills to make it happen.

“Without the festival many families wouldn’t get the opportunity to try out and get involved with these local organisations who have given up their time because they are passionate about what they do.”

After a well earned break the festival’s committee will be making more plans for next year.

If you would like to get involved with the Totton and Eling Arts Festival for 2018 organisers are encouraging you to get in touch at www.te-artsfest.co.uk.