REVELLERS flocked to Alderholt for family fun, comedy, and music from headliners B*Witched — making it the “most successful” ReCreate Festival.

The five-day event, which is in its sixth year and hosted by St James’ Church, took place last week at the village’s recreation ground.

Vicar Philip Martin said that this year had been the “most successful” festival and that it has “continued to grow year on year” without losing the friendly, village festival feel. There were a number of sell-out events including B*Witched, CBeebies Swashbuckle star Gemma Hunt and comedian Mark Watson.

During three mornings more than a hundred children were led by friendly pirate, Captain Deck, in search of hidden treasure.

The headline music act was 90s pop group B*Witched, famed for their hit C’est la Vie.

Rev Martin said the festival was “an amazing celebration of, and for, the whole community”, adding: “Although Alderholt is off the usual radar for some of the artists we attract, they love the welcome and atmosphere they meet with here. But quite apart from the big events, the festival is all about providing a space for people to meet and to feel proud of this great village.”

The festival concluded with an Easter Day Eucharist and celebration in the ReCreate marquee followed by barbecue and live music.

Alderholt ReCreate Festival is run on a not-for-profit basis by a team of volunteers from St James’ Church.

It was Rev Martin’s last ReCreate festival as he will be moving to a new parish in the summer. He praised the “wonderful” team volunteers who helped organise the community event.

He said: “We hope it will continue. I shall miss it.”

In previous years it has attracted music acts like S Club, Big Brovas and Blazin’ Squad.

The village continues its musical offerings as it hosts two international singer-songwriters, Lail Arad and J F Robitaille, for a double bill on Tuesday (April 25) at St James’ Church, 6.30pm.

Tickets cost £6 in advance or £8 on the door from Wegottickets.com or by texting 07597 224520.