The first Newcastle Emlyn Arts and Crafts Festival has been hailed a huge success.

The week-long event, held from August 1 – 7, saw over 30 shops and 30 artists from a wide area taking part.

Organiser Rhian Davies said: ‘I have been overwhelmed by the amount of support and encouragement this has generated from artists and shop owners.

"This festival wouldn't have been a success if it wasn't for over 30 businesses in the town finding a large variety of artists and craft people to exhibit in their shop windows.

"I'm thankful to everyone who made an effort to take part. I'm also grateful to the artists, some of whom have never exhibited their work publicly."

Rhian hopes that the festival has not only attracted visitors to the town but also raised awareness of the Taith Celf Ceredigion Art Trail which has been running for many years.

"I have been thrilled with the positive feedback we have had from some of the artists who are busy with the art trail," she said.

"It has definitely been popular with the locals and visitors alike.

"I have noticed many people stopping to have a look in our window. I know that some visitors had made a special trip to the town to see the artworks.

"Most of the comments about the different displays have been extremely positive and others have generated quite different points of view. I think this is a good thing.

"I also think that all creativity is a positive thing and it should be celebrated.

"I have had many comments from people that say our town looks lovely."

Town mayor Cllr Odette Little also believed the event had had a great impact on the town.

"It went really well for its first year, and it saves people interested in art going from place to place – they could see various artworks here in one town," she said.

"It’s been a very positive week."

Rhian is now already thinking of the 2017 event.

"I think there will have to be another festival next year," she said. "It's too good of an opportunity to miss.

"I know on a personal level it will be the motivation I need to produce some new work and I hope that artists who weren't involved in the festival this year will definitely want to be involved next year.

"Amateurs, professionals or complete beginners - it's open to everybody of all ages. Be brave and approach a shop and get involved."