THE town’s Equinox Festival finally got underway on Friday despite the fork lightning and thunder threatening proceedings, to the delight of a small, but enthusiastic crowd

The organisers delayed the start by half an hour, after which Ross-on-Wye’s town mayor Cllr Bev Pope formally opened the event with the help of children holding an umbrella and welcomed the rhythmic beats of Japanese Taiko drumming to the stage.

Despite the weather the festival, held in the Band Stand in Wye Street, showcased a range of international talent providing a dynamic mix of performances over the two days.

The wet weather theme continued on Saturday as the Leominster Morris men responded by dancing in the rain, while the appreciative audience took advantage of the sail tent to keep dry.

Energetic dance troupes, the locally based Border Belles choir and a display of belly dancing along with a yoga session all being part of the Equinox’s eclectic line-up with a range of acts spanning various cultures and genres.

New to the Equinox Festival this year was a dedicated Kids Zone, featuring giant sized chess and draughts and Connect Four. A circus skills workshops feature juggling and the art of blowing bubbles, while a mobile climbing wall, arts and craft workshops also proved popular.

A range of trade stands provided the culinary delights from around the World.