RAIN failed to dampen spirits as the Pershore Plum Festival drew to a close yesterday.

Despite rain hammering down throughout the morning, the town was alive with shoppers browsing the many stalls and performers who kept crowds entertained throughout the day.

The festival kicked off on July 27 and over the past month thousands have visited the town to enjoy a celebration of Pershore's famous fruit.

Nick Wenden, of Old Sandlin Fruit, based near Malvern, said he was surprised at the turn out despite the rain.

"There are a lot of people around. I've only set up my stall for today but we come every year and people do come up to us and say they saw us here previously and came back to get some more of our fruit, which is really nice. It's good to be able to celebrate the fruit that Pershore is so known for," he said.

A range of activities and event have taken place over the course of the festival, such as the crowning of the Plum Princess, a race night, tastings, balloon modelling, guided tours and visits to local orchards.

Jackie Williams travelled from Worcester for the festival's bank holiday celebrations.

She said: "There is so much to see and do, it has been really good and I'll definitely be coming back next year. It's a shame the weather couldn't be better but there is still plenty of people out enjoying themselves."

A number of trade stalls selling all varieties of plums as well as hot food, crafts and other food could be found at various positions around the town with tents lining the main high street and in Abbey Park, as well as a children's fun zone on King George's Field.

Angela Tidmarsh, chairman of the festival committee, said that although the weather hasn't helped people have still supported the event.

"We are delighted at how many people have ventured out with their raincoats and wellies to enjoy everything we have to offer. The town has really been buzzing and the shops have been really busy.

"We've had just as many if not more activities on offer this year, and we had a fantastic turn out of classic cars and other vehicles. The festival has helped raise the profile of Pershore and the fruit it produces and that's what it's all about," she said.