The first-ever musical festival at Florence Arts Centre was a "huge success", say organisers.

Visitors flocked to the arts centre to see a line-up of local artists and enjoy a fun-filled day of activities.

Florence's building and marketing manager Craig Carruthers said: "It was a great day! What started with us putting up marquees in high winds at 8am turned out to be a huge success.

"The rain stayed away, just about, and we had plenty going on besides the live music.

"Inside and outside there were artists working with festival-goers on various projects, our new studio tenants Hen Ogledd Glass were giving glass-blowing demonstrations and our monthly Friday night boardgamers were having a session too."

Performers included Mel Kinsella, The Twenty Six, Sophia Brenan, Springfield, DJ James Grearson, Zoe Warren, James Wilson and Caitlin Swanston.

Mr Carruthers said: "It was great to see so many families come along and the little people enjoyed face-painting, bouncy castles and dancing in front of the stage.

"I'd personally like to extend a thanks to everyone who came and especially to our fantastic volunteers who gave up their time to help out through the day - without them it simply wouldn't have happened!"

The festival was organised by two volunteers - Lee Adams and Shelbi Travers - while Whitehaven Rotary Club helped out by directing traffic.

"We rely on volunteers for everything we do so if anyone wants to get involved they just need to get in touch," said Mr Carruthers.

"We are looking forward to another Flo Fest in 2018 but in the meantime look out for a new monthly live music night featuring the best local bands and singer-songwriters starting in September."

For more information on the arts centre, visit www.florenceartscentre.com or call 01946 824946.