CRICKLADE festival was a huge success last Sunday with almost 5,000 people turning up, many clutching umbrellas, determined not to let the rain ruin the fun. The seventh year of the festival presented a Hollywood theme and featured performances from X-Factor finalists The Risk and popular Laurel and Hardy tribute act Haurel and Lardy. Chairman of the Festival Committee Nigel Wynne said: "The festival went very well. It rained a little but was still absolutely packed out.

"People came from all over. It started off as a little community event but it's grown and grown over the years. I can't believe a little place like Cricklade has become so big."

Other acts and events included street artist Bruce Airhead, Minety Dancers, and Cricklade Band. "Bruce Airhead was one of the street artists you might see at Convent Garden in London," Nigel continued. "He did an amazing trick with a giant green balloon which finished with him dressed as Elvis."

The Chairman explained how the festival wasn't as busy as it had been in previous years due to the poor weather but that the committee were still thrilled at the turn out. "There were a lot of young girls who were extremely keen on The Risk," he furthered. "They were really nice chaps who signed autographs and had their pictures taken.

"Haurel and Lardy were also excellent although some of the kids were a bit mystified as to who they were."

The festival also had to deal with its first serious incident in seven years when a young boy injured his back after coming down an inflatable slide. He was taken to Great Western Hospital by the South Western Ambulance Service.

St John's Ambulance was first on the scene as it's stationed at the festival for emergencies every year. The boy, aged under 12, is now feeling fine. The festival overall was a success with activities and performances to suit everyone in attendance.