A host of events were laid on during the festival forntnight, including music, literature, walks and drama.

Two larger events were also held – the rain-blighted Steyning Country Fair, and the inaugural Steyning Live Lounge day of music at the old rifle range, on downland near Mouse Lane, Steyning.

Zoe Peate organised musical performances, ranging from the small Music Room quartets to the large choir of Cantatrice, and said the festival had proved what a wealth of musical talent the town had to offer.

"I would like to think there was something for everyone, which includes all those who enjoyed the tremendous Live Lounge day," she added.

"The Orchestral Workshop was incredibly hard work but the day proved really successful, largely due to the wonderful talents of our conductor, Manvinder Rattan, who had the personality, musicianship and drive to turn a very rough start into an exciting concert.

"I would personally like to say a huge thank you to all the musicians who took part and to the committee as you probably have no idea how hard they worked!"

Sara Bowers, of the Steyning Bookshop, organised a total of 14 writers to visit the town during the Steyning Festival, while other activities included history and nature walks, organised by Vivien Lyth, and a stroll across Chanctonbury, led by Keith McKenna, from Footprints of Sussex.

Events co-ordinator Chris Luckin said organisers were thrilled with how the festival went, and thanked everyone who took part for their efforts, including advertisers and sponsors, who he said the committee was indebted to.

Mr Luckin added: "I believe that the festival has increased the numbers of people in the High Street and, hopefully, all the businesses have benefited."

At Monday's (June 9) Steyning Parish Council meeting, chairman Jackie Campbell paid tribute to the organisers, adding she and her husband, Jack, had been out to countless events.

Mrs Campbell said: "I think they did a really good job. We went to so many festival things. It was absolutely amazing, fantastic."

Plans are already underway for the Steyning Festival 2009, and anyone who would like to get involved should keep an eye on the website – www.steyningfestival.co.uk – in the coming weeks.

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