MINEHEAD hosted its first major public event since the start of the coronavirus pandemic lockdown when the EAT: Minehead Festival came to town on Saturday.

Storms the day before nearly saw the event cancelled but thankfully the wind relented so the street market could go ahead.

Much of The Avenue was closed to traffic and filled with dozens of stall holders selling delicious produce from ciders to curries, cakes to chutney and much more.

Minehead BID manager Andrew Hopkins said “We wanted residents to feel safe when we eventually piloted our first event, so an outdoor market with increased spacing between craft gazebos and minimal marketing was thought to be the safest option.

“Tourist towns need visitors. Town’s with an aged demographic need to consider extra safety precautions. Balancing the two is paramount.”

Mr Hopkins said it was pleasing that not only did the stallholders get a good trade, but the street-side cafes and pubs benefitted too.