The Festival, run by a group of local residents in the picturesque village of Deddington, aims to enhance the spirit of the community through a range of arts, family and cultural events.

Jo Bareham, a local Deddington resident, said: “The feedback we have received from visitors to the Festival events has been so positive and we certainly feel the Festival brings our local communities together and benefits all groups and ages.”

Aside from the unfailing support of key individuals, local businesses are encouraged to offer their skills and services to help ease the financial and organisational load.

Local entrepreneur David Watt said: “For us, the Deddington Rocks evening is the ideal event for us to demonstrate our commitment to the local community while showcasing our expertise in event marketing and stage production.

“The success of the Festival not only lies with the local community but also depends on local businesses to offer support in the six-month run up to the Festival. This year, the community offered unprecedented commitment and local businesses in the area dedicated considerable time and money to the cause, not to mention the artists, bands and acts that participated in the events.”

Another local sponsor of the event, Eddie Sinclair, Director of Oxfordshire-based Parkers European, commented: “We’d like to encourage more local businesses to get involved next year – the event has so much potential and could continue to benefit the community while offering excellent entertainment for local families.”

In total, the Deddington Festival Committee valued its contribution to the local community at more than £45,000 this year which includes the time and money committed from entertainers, businesses, advertisers and sponsors.

Hugh O’Donnell, Chairman of the Deddington Festival, commented: “We have undoubtedly had the best Festival ever and we remain committed to making the 2009 Festival even better. We’d like more help from local businesses, such as Corporate Innovations and Parkers European, so if anyone would like to get involved please get in touch with us via www.deddingtonfestival.org.uk “