THERE were smiles all round at eat:Wellington on Saturday (September 5).

Visitors worked hard to socially distance by wearing masks and bringing shopping lists, so everyone had the chance to browse the stalls.

“We were very pleased with how the event went on Saturday,” said organisers Bev and Sarah Milner Simonds.

“It was lovely to hear the feedback from Welly businesses who saw many people for the first time since lockdown.

“We wanted to create a safe, welcoming event and people followed our guidelines by coming with a list, shopping and then heading off to explore the shops or back home.

Somerset County Gazette: SOCIALLY DISTANCED: Stalls were far apart during the event to avoid overcrowdingSOCIALLY DISTANCED: Stalls were far apart during the event to avoid overcrowding

“There will be lots of time in the future for lazy days out, but we know we aren’t quite there yet.

“We saw a lot of mask wearing and our stewards didn’t have to intervene at all to remind people to socially distance.

“The feedback from our producers was that once again Welly people are curious and have a healthy appetite.

“Thank you to the county, district and town councillors who came along too.

“We open for 2021 applications on November 1 and we urge local businesses who want to be involved to make contact with us so we can shout about what they are offering too.”

Somerset County Gazette: SWEET TREAT: Oli Robbins from FlapjackerySWEET TREAT: Oli Robbins from Flapjackery

There were many local businesses who took part including Somerset Charcuterie, Ticky Cider, Kitchen Garden, Flapjackery, India in a Jar, Robert Hawker Venison, Gluten Free Picnic, Culmstock Chilli Company, Epic Beers Of Distinction and many more.

There was a change to the layout with more spaces around stalls, queuing systems and a one-way system for pedestrians at the main junction to maintain social distancing.

The next eat festivals in Somerset will be eat:Yeovil on September 19 and eat:Weston on September 26.

To find out more visit www.eatfestivals.org