Pershore’s most famous export attracted visitors from far and wide.

The Plum Festival made its long-awaited return this bank holiday weekend, having been cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.

Unsurprisingly, many of the town’s residents made their way to Abbey Park, the heart of the action.

Among them, Chloe Warren, who visited with her sons Finn and Albie..

“We absolutely loved the whole vibe, everyone was happy and chilled,” she said.

“It was a fabulous, well planned, family-oriented day with plenty to look at and lots of great stalls.”

Gary Steele grew up in Pershore and now lives near Redditch but makes sure to return to his hometown for the historic event.

He said: “I like to come back for a look around and to support events like the Plum festival.

“I brought my family with me and we bought a few items from the stalls then went for refreshments at the Angel Inn’s beer garden by the river.

“A lovely day and thankfully very sunny.”

Travelling from even further afield was Tony Fox and his wife Gillian, who came from Birmingham with their dog Jinny for the Plum Pooches in the Park event on Sunday.

“The event was absolutely magnificent,” he said.

“I know that the crop came a bit early this year, but the Worcestershire plum is something that needs celebrating.

“I can’t think of a better town than Pershore to hold such an event.”

Festival events had taken place since the start of July, culminating in the extravaganza over the bank holiday which included a classic car show, a 10k race, a dog show and much more.

The festival also offered local businesses and community groups a chance to engage with the public.

Lizzie Ranstead and the team from Mini Scrummers Rugby offered free multisport activities.

Lizzie said: "This year’s festival has a real focus on the wellbeing of the local community, with so many engaging activities for all ages.

“A real highlight for us has been seeing children who have been born during Covid, interact in multisport activities and develop in confidence this weekend."

Jacky’s Pantry was among the local traders that enjoyed the festival’s return.

Owner Jacky Taylor said: “It is lovely to be back after three long years.

“It's always a lovely event and I look forward to seeing some regulars and new customers.

“We've been madly making lots of varieties of plum jams and chutneys so are hoping they go down well with people.”

County councillor Richard Morris added: "It was a terrific event allowing the community to come together locally."