NEARLY 12,000 visitors were attracted to this year’s b-side festival on Portland, according to organisers.

More than 30 artists took part in this year’s festival, which included a lullaby delivered on a bike, stories engraved on cafe cutlery, and a debate with a rabbit on Portland.

The festival takes place every other year in the borough but this year’s theme had a particular focus on Portland.

This year, for the first time, artists worked on the island in the year before the festival took place in September.

Volunteers were manned at each project counting the number of people in attendance throughout the week. Numbers recorded were higher than those during the Olympics.

Alan Rogers, b-side director, said: “b-side offers temporary experiences and often accidental encounters with art – big events to celebrate but also quiet moments to reflect. It feels as though this year’s festival has had an even more profound effect on local people and it’s attracted lots of visitors to the island too.

“We’ve been so inspired by the work of this year’s artists and by the hugely positive response from local people and visitors.

“We’re already thinking about how we can create something even more impressive, moving and meaningful for Weymouth in two years time.”

Cllr Sandy West, who represents the Underhill ward for Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, said: “b-side changed the whole way I felt about art.

“It was whacky, thought provoking, breathtaking and fantastic.

“Portland was put on the map and showed that we are not just a cream tea and a visit to Portland Bill to see the lighthouse.”

The festival had its status renewed as an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation earlier this year.

Phil Gibby, South West area director at Arts Council England, said: “The success of this year’s b-side festival has its roots in the exploration and celebration of Portland’s cultural history, ecology and geology as well as its local community.

“The festival really embedded artists into the fabric of the island, showing work that was challenging, unique, moving and focused on a sense of place and identity. “We are pleased to support b-side’s festival and look forward to seeing it develop.”