WHAT started as an idea in a pub 10 years ago now attracts punters from all over the country.

Wallingford’s Bunkfest celebrated its 10th anniversary this weekend by letting visitors into all events for free.

The festival, which takes place on the Kinecroft, features music, dance, beer and steam.

Bob Wyatt, 59, who founded the festival with his friend Colin Dolton while they were in the Cross Keys pub together one evening, said: “We are doing it for the people of Wallingford and giving something back to the place we were born in.

“It is such a friendly festival and there is such a community spirit. About eight of the pubs are joining in.

“This weekend has been massive. There were more people this year than last year. I think it has been the biggest one so far.”

Mr Dolton, who is currently serving as mayor of Wallingford, said: “We are both very passionate to keep it free. While people come here and spend their money we will keep it that way.”

Last year’s festival attracted about 20,000 visitors to the town over the three days.

Headline acts at this year’s Bunkfest, which ran from Friday until yesterday, included Transglobal Underground, Demon Barber Roadshow and Peatbog Faeries.

Ten years on, the festival has taken over the whole town with 12 venues including the town’s Market Place, Wallingford Sports Park and the George Hotel.

It featured a craft fair featuring more than 50 stalls of goods from around the world, music and dance workshops, a storytelling fringe and a singing train where performers provide entertainment along the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway.

There were also ceilidhs in the evenings at Wallingford Sports Park and musical boat trips down the River Thames.

Paul Fearon, who came down from Croydon for the weekend with The Wild Hunt Morris dance troupe, said: “We have been to Bunkfest several times. It has been a shame about the rain but it has turned out lovely.”

Milo Brooks, from Didcot, said: “It is a family friendly festival. There is lots of variety and you can bring your children.”