“Even with the rain the figures just show how much the public love it,” said Councillor Linda Thomas.

“We had visitors from all over the country and further afield such as Germany and France, some who come every year for the festival. It is great news that we have topped last year’s visitor numbers – it shows what a brilliant attraction we now have annually.

“We’ve had some fantastic feedback from visitors, traders, chefs and our sponsors and partners. It is without doubt – as James Martin himself said – the biggest and best food festival in the country and I would like to thank everyone for making this the best one to date.”