The 2024 Budleigh Music Festival has seen a 10 per cent increase in ticket sales, marking its most successful year to date.

The festival, which took place between June 28 and July 7, hosted sell-out crowds in St Peter's Church and achieved a record number of young attendees and performers.

World renowned artists including Tenebrae, Seckou Keita and Benjamin Grosvenor performed for classical music lovers during the week, playing to full houses. The festival also showcased new and upcoming artists such as accordionist Ryan Corbett and singer Bethany Partridge.

Future Talent, a charity supporting musicians from low income backgrounds, organised a group of talented young musicians to perform a world premiere of a specially commissioned work, the 'Ataya Sonata', composed by Seckou Keita.

The festival also found a star in Charlie, the church cat, who had to be coaxed out from under the stage several times.

Around 200 local schoolchildren watched the Seckou Keita and Future Talent performance  (Image: Tom Hurley/Budleigh Music Festival)

Kate Somerby, chair of Budleigh Music Festival, said: "We are absolutely delighted with this week’s Festival.

"It’s been a pleasure to bring musicians of such incredibly high calibre to the region.

"Thank you to all the amazing artists, to our committed volunteers and our generous sponsors, who enable us to stage a wonderful event.

"And of course, there has to be a special mention for Charlie the Cat – we’re already in talks with his agent regarding next year!"

The 2025 Budleigh Music Festival, which will mark its 20th anniversary, is scheduled for June 27 to July 5.

The event's programme will be announced in spring 2025.