A MUSIC festival in west Dorset was a big success - and 'what people needed' after a tough year, say organisers.

The SouthCider Festival went ahead at Bredy Farm, near Burton Bradstock, from Friday, July 2 until Sunday, July 4.

The event was headlined by Bare Jams on Friday night, Jimmy Needles and the Cosmic Orchestra on the Saturday and by Black Water County on the Sunday evening.

The event was held under the current Covid restrictions. People arrived on the day in groups of up to 30 and were given their own space where they could enjoy the music, whether they where sitting down or up and dancing.

Charlie Harris, organiser of the event, said: “The weekend went really well, people really enjoyed themselves.

“We wanted to do it, and everyone wanted to come – I think everyone needed it.

“It was fantastic to be able to put the event on. Obviously the lockdown was extended in the lead up to the festival so the risk assessment had to changed and be put back together very quickly.

"Everyone loved it, people felt safe and it was a huge success. It went really well and we are really pleased we did it."

As is tradition for summer festivals in the UK, the weather was less than favourable. But when the rain made an appearance, so did the umbrellas and the festival goers continued with their day.

The festival was planned when it was thought coronavirus restrictions would be lifted. But after 'Freedom Day' was delayed until Monday, July 19 a risk assessment for the event was completed and it was given the green light to go ahead.

The festival went ahead with a reduced capacity, half of what the organisers' licence allows. Those who attended took lateral flow tests on arrival and people were encouraged to take a test before they left their homes. There was also temperature checks, a pre event questionnaire to determine if any attendees had been isolating - and those who live in areas where the Delta variant is rising were unable to attend.

Bredy Farm's next event, BeCider Seaside 12 will take place between Friday, July 30 and Sunday, August 1.

For more information or to book at ticket, visit www.bredyfarm.com