Chesil rocked for another successful year as the sun shone on the family festival near the coast.

Chesil Rocks, which raises funds for Samaritans of Dorset, took place this year over two days for the first time.

The 'prelude' event on the Friday was an evening of classical music featuring concert pianist Duncan Honeybourne, opera from Stella Brading and finishing off with the Tumlyn Brass Quintet.

Around 100 people attended the event set in the beautiful gardens at Higher Farmhouse, Langton Herring.

The main day on the Saturday saw 500 people of all ages attend.

There was a fantastic array of music and comedy and activities for children. Performers included local talent Amy Mayes, Jess Upton and the Guilty Pleasures, Hustle, the Leggomen, Slipstream and the Andy Grant Trio, and from further afield, Stellar Sha, Gaz Brookfield, Sarah de Warren and the London Gay Men's Chorus.

Now in its eighth year, the event is organised each year by Tim and Hilary Warren in their garden.

Mrs Warren said, "This year, although monies are still being counted and bills paid, we think we have raised at least £10,000, which is a fantastic amount and a quarter of the Samaritans of Dorset's annual budget.

"So many people commented upon a magical atmosphere to the event this year."

Tim Warren added: "We are extremely grateful to many, many individuals and local businesses who support us, without which we would not be able to stage the event or raise the profile of Samaritans.

"From local landowner Robert Mayo, who allows those attending the event to park in his field, to stallholders who refused to claim any expenses – and to one festival attendee who enjoyed the event so much and appreciated what we were trying to do, that he offered to purchase any unsold tickets. Fortunately for him there weren't any!

"We seem to attract a lot of goodwill which has a lovely feeling."

The Warrens also thanked the "amazing and growing team of volunteers who come back every year to provide invaluable help".