THERE was a fitting moment of splendour to bring one of the most successful BAAFest’s to a close.

During the final song from headliners the Gerry Colvin Band, the power died and left the musicians and crowd in complete darkness.

But that didn’t stop the fun, as the band, accompanied on saxophone by festival orgainser Fiona Lander, carried on as normal – under light provided by phones from the crowd.

Fellow organiser Paul Mason said: “Before the song had finished, the power was back up and running, but it was such a magical moment to see everybody play on.

“The whole crowd was singing along at that point, so the band played on, and it is a memory which will stay with everybody for ever.”

The event, Bellingham All Acoustic Festival, to give it its full name, proved a huge hit with people of all ages between Thursday and Sunday.

Starting with a fund-raising event, the following night’s student concert was a sell-out as people crammed in to see the local talent on display.

There was plenty of variety on the two main days of the weekend, with Australian Jenny Biddle and Gerry Colvin particular highlights.

Paul said: “The standard of musicians is always good and we pride ourselves on the standard of act we book. We meet these people on the road, so can vouch for them before they play here.

“Jenny Biddle is the perfect example; we watched her play support at a gig in Selkirk and she was amazing, so we booked her there and then.”