More than 4,000 people flocked to Wickham on Sunday (Sep 14) to enjoy local produce, cookery demonstrations and live music.

Attendance at the inaugural Taste of Wickham festival was more than double what organisers expected, with one saying the demonstrations were “absolutely packed out” all day.

The festival, organised by local businesses and aided by more than 40 volunteers, also featured market stalls, live dance and a range of food tastings from local chefs.

Children were treated to a bouncy castle, play bus, animal petting and craft activities in the village’s medieval square.

Cllr Rob Humby, leader of Winchester City Council, said: “Considering that this was the very first Taste of Wickham, I was absolutely amazed at how well organised and supported it was. The sheer number of visitors took everybody by surprise.”

Heidi Isa, the council’s market towns officer, said the festival was a “celebration of everything that makes Wickham special”.

“Wickham has got all sorts to it,” she said, “there’s lots of different things you can enjoy. The community there is really strong and there are great links between the businesses.

“All of the demonstrations were absolutely packed out.”

Organisers will meet next week (Sep 24) to discuss feedback from visitors and residents with a view to bringing the event back next year.