About 20,000 people enjoyed the Colchester Free Festival.

Crowds enjoy some of the feast of free music at this year's festival. Pictures: TERRY WEEDEN 23317-16

The festival, now in its third year, sees a number of stages and arenas set up throughout Castle Park.And the bank holiday event was declared a resounding success.

"We had a great day and had absolutely loads of people here" said Mark Glenister of the organisation committee.

"Even though the weather wasn't brilliant, we think we had even more people than last year and I think we were better organised too, so it all ran smoothly."

The festival went ahead despite suffering financial problems throughout the year.

Organisers feared at one stage it would have have to be cancelled after being turned down for a charity grant.

Mr Glenister said: "It came together in the end we had a few last-minute donations but we think that adding the parking charge might have helped keep us in the black."

The blues - Lee Hodgson 23317-27

Among the attractions on offer were five performance areas, two workshop areas and free music and art workshops throughout the site including the Gazette's sponsored jam stage.

Children were also catered for with a designated area along with a craft area and community stalls.

"People really seemed to enjoy the dance workshop that was very popular," said Mr Glenister.

"There were people from the whole community here there was something for everyone."

Published Tuesday August 27, 2002

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