PILTON Street in Barnstaple was awash with colour at the weekend as the annual Green Man Festival attracted hundreds of revellers from across North Devon.

Fears of the festival's cancellation after a "shocking" event last year were allayed on Saturday as hordes of people turned out to enjoy the good weather and festivities.

The grand parade snaked its way up from the town square to the peak of Pilton Street as onlookers bobbed around to the infectious rhythms of the Zamba band.

As well as the usual array of weird and wonderful stalls and games, the event boasted live music across three stages from 27 acts including local favourites Colin Shaddick, The Yum Yums, Liquidators and The Average Blues Band.

A new addition this year was the Cancer Busking stage run by 14-year-old Harry Houseago from Umberleigh.

Last week Harry played in front of 2,500 people at London's O2 arena as part of a national unsigned artist competition.

He said: "It's a bit of a change playing here today but it's always great fun.

"I played my first ever gig at the Green Man Festival four years ago and have performed here ever since.

"The busking stage gives up and coming solo artists in North Devon a chance to perform at the event on a smaller level. Proceeds from the stage are going to Cancer Research UK."

Pilton resident and district councillor Dave Butt compered the event wearing a pair of garish yellow leggings and a flowery shirt.

He said: "I've been coming to the event for years now and today has been good fun as always.

"It's such a great community event. There's something for everyone and I always see plenty of familiar faces.

"The organising committee have worked exceptionally hard this year so a huge vote of thanks needs to go to them."

Members of Barnstaple Pilot Gig Club were also present at the event along with their training boat Odessa.

Club chairman John Ellwood said: "Today is a great chance for us to display the boat and raise more funds for our new boat which is

currently on order.

"We've also signed up a some new members today which is great."

Tim Webster, of Barum Breweries, organised the beer festival at the Reform Inn and reported good crowds throughout the day.

He said: "I'm so glad the event has gone ahead this year. Hopefully it will give us a good standing for next year's

festival.

"The sun's out and people are in high spirits, what more could you ask for?"

Event organiser Gareth Woolway added: "It was a great success and we can already confirm that the festival will go ahead next year which is a huge relief.

"It made me very proud to see so many local people support a local event."