THE Vale's main festivals and events have this year continued to grow in both quality and size.

Here, council spokesperson Lew Hammond looks back at the successes of 2005 and ahead to see how townspeople could pull together still further:-

"UNLESS you have been involved in running an event, you will not be aware of just how much hard work, dedication and community spirit is involved.

It is fun, though, - particularly if the sun shines and you see people enjoying themselves and the streets filled with people as they used to be, before edge-of-town and out-of-town shopping malls introduced different footfall habits and the motor car gave us all the choice.

Now, I am not complaining, merely making an observation that sometimes I wonder if some of the town's retailers realise what opportunities they are missing when they don't open up their shops on those special Sundays and Bank Holidays when the pavements are overflowing.

Events bring people into our towns, they provide entertainment, opportunity to socialise, are a health stimulus, giving that 'feel good factor', engendering pride in the environment and heritage whilst introducing new people to the towns - and they are profit-making opportunities too!

Take the magical River Festival when 35,000 visit over the three-day weekend - even some of the banks' cash points ran dry last August Bank Holiday!

There were just too many people to count at the Pershore Plum Fayre!

Having spoken to several seasoned independent retailers, I do not understand that one day off a week and the occasional Bank Holiday long weekend is a welcome and much-deserved break - but I counter that with this: The towns need you open on those high days when so many people have put so much effort in to promote the town that they belong to, are proud to serve and feel privileged to do so. You are a vital part of the town.

Even the smaller events, like the Medieval Festival, where a glimpse of Evesham's history can be viewed along with some combat, court dancing and singing and living history can be enjoyed. Or the Eastern Festival when food and the arts combine to give a spicy touch to the weekend and the Balloon, Boats and Classic Cars weekend when many thousands come into the town that otherwise would not.

In 2006, we will also have an Asparagus Feast and Beer, Cider and Wine Festival on Spring Bank Holiday Monday in the Workman Gardens and in July, the Evesham Carnival.

But, Christmas first - do please support your own towns - the independent traders that truly do have unique merchandise, the high street names and the markets - all great for a bit of retail therapy, helping to keep our towns vibrant. Merry Christmas."