CINDERFORD’S annual music festival ‘Cindyfest’ was back with possibly its best ever turnout this weekend, with locals out enjoying the last of the summer long into the evening.

The stage was set at The Triangle in the town centre for an eclectic line-up of local music spanning the whole day on Sunday (August 28).

Local businesses including Chinese eatery Happy Dumpling 365 were stationed next to the stage at the event, while Cinderford’s own Eats Treats, Truly Scrumptious, The Dog House and The Golden Lion were among those supplying food and drink across the town.

Youngsters were out in force decorating the road with their brightly-coloured chalk drawings, and a well-frequented bouncy castle also provided hours of entertainment in front of the stage.

First up at midday was local duo Ann Teek, who played a “lively” set of dance and sing-along music from the 50s through to the 70s.

Next on was acoustic artist Olly Marshall who pleased the crowd with some laid back covers, followed by the “mischief, madness and mayhem” of blues rock band Taffy Was A Thief.

Local singer Onika Venus brought her original old school reggae and soul vibes to the stage along with her six-piece backing band, before local trio Small Dogs Bite entertained the audience with a dynamic set of post-punk rock.

The penultimate act of the evening was Forest-based rock band Mirages, who performed their energetic set of original “bluesy, grungy alt rock”.

And the audience danced their way into the night with two sets of sing-along rock and pop classics from headliners MK Experience.

Locals posted on social media praising the event, which was organised by Cinderford Town Council together with Gloucestershire-based charity The Music Works.

The organisers described this year’s festival as one of the best to date.

One festival goer said: “Fabulous vibe in The Triangle. Well done to everyone who organised this event. Such a great turnout.”

Another added: “Brilliant entertainment - rounded off well with MKE. Well done everyone!”