FOR me the Party in the Close, which heralds the end of Salisbury International Arts Festival, is one of those all too rare occasions that reminds you how lovely living here can be.

The beautiful weather helped no end as hoards of people and their picnics arrived in the Cathedral Close ready for an evening of fine music with a party atmosphere.

This was a family occasion with lots of excited children running round, trying some circus skills and enjoying the eclectic mix of entertainers.

Local band Caught in the Crossfire was first on stage and clearly relished the chance of performing at the occasion.

They were followed by Kanda Bongo Man whose infectious rhythms made it hard to stay still.

Many leapt to their feet and bopped about at the front while others were content to soak up his African grooves from the safety of their garden chairs while tapping their toes in time.

Top of bill were the Soothsayers and the Red Earth Collective whose blend of reggae and jazz lifted the atmosphere.

While many were happy to stay and chill at the back – or maybe dash for a tree when a few raindrops threatened to dampen the occasion – other revellers were tempted away from their picnics to dance around to the funky beats.

With the cathedral bathed in light, the whole place looked wonderful and it’s a real bonus the Festival can make use of Salisbury’s most famous asset for its closing event.

With China being one of this year’s themes the fireworks had to be good and this display didn’t disappoint.

Set to music, the dazzling display could be seen and heard across the city and made sure the 2011 Salisbury International Arts Festival went out with a bang.