THERE really was something for everybody at the Festival of Thrift and the broad range of people visiting over the weekend proved that thrift is for all.

Among those enjoying the atmosphere were Shildon couple Alex, 34, and Samantha Townsend, 27, who visited with their two young children Nicky and Stevie.

Mrs Townsend said that although her children were a little too young to take part in the workshops, she hoped the festival would return to Lingfield Point next year so she could get more involved.

She said: “We decided at the last minute to come and we would definitely come again.

“I make baby carriers so would like a stall myself next time, but either way I’d like to read up more on the information beforehand so we know what’s included and what to take part in.”

Mr Townsend added: “I think it’s really good, but maybe we will go for lunch beforehand next time because the queues for food have been really long.

“I play music so I found the tent with the guitars interesting and I like having a good rummage through all the bric-a-brac.”

Charlotte Wiper, 22, of Darlington, said the thrift theme appealed to her.

“It’s interesting to see what you can make out of things you would normally throw away,” she said.

“There’s a lot to see and do – I really enjoyed watching Ida Barr – and it’s great that it’s a free event.

“The only negative is that at times it felt so busy that I didn’t get close to some of the stalls.”

Darlington-based artist Yvonne Preston had worked with Hummersknott schoolchildren on outdoor artwork which decorated the festival site.

She said she had heard positive feedback from festival goers, adding: “It is nice when you hear people who are not from the area but have come to Darlington especially for this.”