Pictures: Thousands attend Shrewsbury Quarry's first Christmas Festival

Crowds braved the wet weather to attended the event, held on Saturday and Sunday, which featured more than 150 food and craft producers, carol singing, and an ice rink.

There was also a host of free hands on workshops, and plenty of activities and crafts for the children.

Organiser Beth Heath said the event had put everyone in the festive spirit.

She said: "The event has gone really really well.

"People have really got behind the idea.

"The response has been overwhelming; especially on social media, people have just gone crazy for it.

"It has been very busy and we are so pleased with the turn out.

"The ice rink has been packed and has been a particular highlight.

"There has been such a nice atmosphere.

"We were concerned as the weather forecast was so bad but it doesn't seem to have put people off.

"The Quarry is absolutely gorgeous and it's a wonderful place to hold it."

Tina Cavan, 48, of Bayston Hill, said: "We have all really enjoyed our trip to the festival. It was a shame about the wet weather but it did not spoil it for us.

"The children really enjoyed the ice rink which was good to see. There were lots of great food and drink stalls. Thanks to the festival I have now finished by Christmas shopping."

And Ben Jones, 32, from Shrewsbury, said: "It was great to see so many happy smiling people despite the appalling weather.

"It was great the event was undercover in huge marquees. There was plenty of choice. I hope it is held again next year - a great success."

Proceeds raised from the ice rink and the soup kitchen run by Shrewsbury College will go towards Shrewsbury Ark.