A FESTIVAL showcasing the young talent that Dorset has to offer has returned for its 12th year, bringing the bank holiday to a close.

Anonymous Festival was held at Dorchester’s Borough Gardens for the first time after previously being held at Maumbury Rings.

The event proved extremely popular with thousands of visitors going along to see what the young talent of Dorset had to offer.

Dorset Echo: Crowds at the Anonymous Festival at Dorchester Borough Gardens. Picture: Graham Hunt PhotographyCrowds at the Anonymous Festival at Dorchester Borough Gardens. Picture: Graham Hunt Photography

Emma Scott, of Dorchester Town Council said: “There were so many people, and everyone had a great day – I think it was the best ever event, the performers were outstanding.”

Headliners included the British indie pop-rock four-piece ‘Galaxy Thief,’ ‘The Undecided,’ ‘Charlene Clease’ and Weymouth’s very own ‘Maelei’ whose music has been played on BBC radio.

Dorset Echo: Charlene Clease performing at the Anonymous Festival. Picture: Graham Hunt PhotographyCharlene Clease performing at the Anonymous Festival. Picture: Graham Hunt Photography

A previous year’s headliner, Isaiah Dreads who has nearly 4 million Spotify streams on his song ‘Clouds’, went along to the festival to offer his support.

Ms Scott said: “I am really excited as Isaiah Dreads came along to support us and has offered to headline next year – He is such a great ambassador.”

The free family-friendly event filled the gardens with a variety of great activities including inflatables, bungee trampolines, food stalls, a chilled out craft area and even henna tattoos.

Dorset Echo: Festival goers play a giant board game on the litter free Dorset stand at the Anonymous Festival at Dorchester Borough Gardens Picture: Graham Hunt PhotographyFestival goers play a giant board game on the litter free Dorset stand at the Anonymous Festival at Dorchester Borough Gardens Picture: Graham Hunt Photography

This year’s festival saw plenty of great feedback come flooding in with visitors writing ‘We massively enjoyed it,’ ‘We enjoyed all the stalls and music and would like to thank the organisers,’ ‘Fantastic,’ and even a young child told organisers ‘I’m so happy.’

Anonymous Festival came about as a result of a survey completed by young people in the area.

Ms Scott added: “The survey revealed that they wanted to see more live music in the area, and they also wanted to be able to perform their own songs as at their age they are generally playing in pubs, and they want them to perform covers - That’s what we really want to showcase.

“Also a big up to Dorchester Town Council and everyone who helped to fund the event.”