HUNDREDS packed out the village marquee as two ‘storming nights’ capped off the 35th Aberdour Festival.

There was no looking away as Big Country took to the stage on Friday night before the family ceilidh wrapped things up on Saturday evening.

Thousands of visitors descended on Aberdour’s popular 10-day event which brought the community together for music, comedy, entertainment and culture.

Despite last Saturday’s Beach Day falling victim to heavy rain and strong winds, organisers remarked the feedback has been positive, with some claiming it was the ‘best festival yet’.

Helen Pearson, chairperson, said: “Big Country stormed it. It was a great celebration of the festival marking 35 years, and their first album (The Crossing) being released.

“I was standing near the front and it was great to watch them and everyone enjoying the night. The family ceilidh was another amazing evening with all ages getting involved.

“You can’t beat it. It’s a tremendous night for everyone.”

She continued: “From the moment the music started, everyone was up on the dancefloor having a great time. From toddlers, to teens to their parents, it was lovely.

“I’d be struggling to put a number on the amount of people that turned out for those two storming nights. Every event over the festival was well-attended and many said it was the best festival the village has had.”

Over the course of the programme, the popular Donkey Brae race was held and comedians Simon Evans and Christopher Macarthur-Boyd left their audience in stitches.

Award-winning Christopher Brookmyre made the trip to Aberdour as he celebrated the publication of his new novel, while a sold-out murder mystery evening was a ‘phenomenal’ night.

Hannah Rarity and Calum Morrison entertained a full house at the Woodside Hotel with a varied repertoire of Scots songs.

Hannah is the current BBC Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year and her varied programme included a beautiful version of Robert Burns’ My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose which prompted a standing ovation and a call for an encore.

Helen added: “There’s a great community spirit here and everyone works together and goes out of their way to help if there are any problems.

“It wouldn’t work if we didn’t have the support that we do here and it’s just lovely to see everyone enjoying themselves.

“We had new things this year like the murder mystery night and the silent disco, which were both brilliant.

“Every night was different and had a great atmosphere. I’d just like to thank everyone who came this year and to everyone that helped make it run smoothly. It was very successful and I’m delighted with how it went.”

The popular raft race was postponed on Beach Day but a new date has been re-arranged for Sunday, August 26.