BARRY Arts Festival drew to close last weekend, the end of a week that saw everyone from Keith Chegwin to Britain's one-time most wanted man Howard Marks to the Archbishop of Wales paying a visit.

The third annual festival swept across venues throughout Barry and Barry Island with events ranging from art exhibitions, musical performances, guest speakers, workshops and live comedy providing entertainment.

Highlights from the latter half of the festival included Mr Nice Howard Marks, the notorious drug smuggler and author performing his spoken word show "Scholar, Smuggler, Prisoner, Scribe" at Barry Island Sports and Social Club.

The same venue also hosted Barry born stand-up comedian Mike Bubbins on Friday August 1 and an all-day Folk Festival on Saturday, August 2. The folk festival was headlined by the winners of the Best Duo prize at the BBC Folk Awards - Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin.

The Little Blue Deli in High Street played host to several talks from famous figures including the Archbishop of Wales Barry Morgan and playwright Frank Vickery.

Delighted with success of the festival, spokeswoman Sarah Creasey said that they hope to once again build on momentum gathered over the last three years and put together an amazing programme again next year.

Even though the festival has only just wrapped up, work is already due to begin on next year's festival in the coming weeks.

To get involved contact Sarah Creasey on 07917881220.

Sarah thanked Barry Town Council for their support as well as event sponsor Pukka.