HATHERLEIGH went chilli-con-carne crazy over the bank holiday weekend for the town's first ever Chilli Festival.

The town square was the battleground for local businesses, organisations and individuals to make a vat of chilli con carne with rice, and compete against each other to see who made the best chilli.

The event had a party atmosphere, with a live band and DJ providing music, and visitors with iron stomachs took on other chilli-themed challenges during the evening.

After a wonderful evening of close-fought chilli competition, Café de Ville was declared the winner of the best chilli contest.

The event was organised to raise funds for the Hatherleigh Festival.

The annual event brings music, art, workshops and more to the town during the summer. The festival committee is already busy planning original and creative events to entertain and excite those attending, and is looking to find funds to help the 2013 be the best yet.