WET weather failed to dampen spirits as people from across the county flocked to West Devon to enjoy one of Dartmoor's premier events.

The 31st Dartmoor Folk Festival held at South Zeal from Friday to Sunday has been hailed a success – despite the wet weather.

The crowds went along in their hundreds to enjoy traditional music, song, crafts and dance.

They were treated to a packed programme, which included performances from some of the top artists in the folk music world playing alongside local musicians and singers.

Dartmoor Pixie Band opened the festival in a huge marquee at South Zeal Playing Field while Dr Tom Greeves, chairman of the Dartmoor Society, and Elisabeth Stanbrook, former editor of the Dartmoor Magazine, performed the official opening.

Highlights were the Dartmoor stepdance and broom dance championships.

The step dance competition involves dancers trying to out-step one another on a 15-inch square board to win a place in the competition's final, which is held on an old hay wagon.

Adult winner was Matt Norman, from Exeter, formerly of South Zeal.

Junior winner was Zoe Davies, 15, from Starcross. She was also junior winner in 2007 and 2005 and next year will have to compete in the adult section.

The broom dance competition, for primary school aged children, was won by Laura Bazeley, 10, second Beth Frangleton, 9. and third, Molly Marvin, 7, all from South Zeal.

Events included dances, a Dartmoor fayre, ceilidh and song and music sessions, workshops and concerts.

There was also a ramble over Dartmoor, a folk service and a duck race. In the craft marquee there were demonstrations, including reed rope making, skip making and spinning.

Festival chairman Jason Rice said: 'Despite the challenging weather it was a very successful event and everyone had a good time.

'The only event which had to be cancelled due to the weather was the hawk flying demonstration on Saturday afternoon, everything else went ahead as planned.'

Festival secretary Jane White said: 'Sales of weekend tickets were as normal this year but the afternoon tickets were slightly down due to the wet weather.

'Overall, there was a really good atmosphere, considering the weather.'

Press officer Alan Quick said: 'It was a bit soggy underfoot but we have a wet weather action plan which sees all events transfer under canvas.

'Many events are also held in local halls or other venues, so it really wasn't too bad.

'The fields for car parking could not be used, but everyone managed to find somewhere to park. We would like to thank local residents for their understanding with the increase in traffic and parked vehicles.

'Thanks also to all the volunteers and everyone who helped in any way.

'Despite the difficulties the weather posed, I am really pleased that it did not dampen the spirits of all the people that attended.

'We all had a really great time.'