ORGANISERS of this year's Newent Onion Fayre are hailing it as a record-breaking birthday success.

The fayre has its origins back in medieval days.

But last weekend the event marked its 20th anniversary, counting from the year it was revived, to become one of the best attended annual attractions in the three counties.

It is not unusual for the event to attract crowds in excess of 15,000; but organisers say that even this was exceeded on Saturday, September 12, thanks in part to the "after party party" by the name of Onionfest, which had chart-topping bands in the line-up.

Committee member, Charlotte Offord said: "This was definitely the best and the biggest yet, It was a fantastic day, finished off with a spectacular evening. The birthday celebration was a huge hit.

"The sun shone for us through the day and the event was definitely the biggest yet. We had over 180 stalls, which is the most we've ever had."

She added: "Onionfest had a brilliant atmosphere, and those that came saw a completely unique and individual show. With fantastic lasers, lighting and smoke, it really was something to be seen! The Beat, Nizlopi and 3 Daft Monkeys got people dancing and with it all reflected on the lake, it just looked spectacular."

The men's onion eating competition was won by Newent's own Sean Wozencroft, who polished off his onion in 1 minute 17 seconds, to savour his sixth victory.

The ladies' champion was Sara Davies of Ross, who relished both her onion and her fourth victory in the unusual event.

Other attractions included a dog show, giant bubbles, trampolining, belly dancers, Morris dancers and fishing lessons by Newent lake.