THE 37th Grassington Festival drew to a close on Saturday night with a spectacular appearance by the 80’s smash hit group, Bananarama, rounding off 15 days and nights of music, art, theatre, talks, exhibitions, guided walks, literature and creative workshops.

Original Bananarama members Keren Woodward and Sara Dallin, together with their four-piece band, performed their extensive back catalogue of hit songs in perfect unison, to the delight of the 1,500 strong marquee crowd, many of whom had dressed for the occasion in 80’s fancy dress.

The duo even invited some lucky audience members onto the stage with them to sing their hit song 'Venus'.

The festival offered something for people of all ages, as eight-year-old Max Scholey spoke enthusiastically about one of the opening weekend events, Morgan and West’s Magic Show for Kids and Childish Grown-Ups.

Max said: “I have been to Grassington Festival since I was one. Since then I have loved every single bit of it. I really loved being part of the magic show. Morgan and West were brilliant.”

Festival director Kate Beard said: “This year’s festival has been a resounding success drawing large audiences to Grassington. We have received so many positive comments, not only about the quality of the music and entertainment, but also about our wonderful army of volunteers who have worked so hard to ensure the smooth running of the festival.

“I would once again like to thank all the sponsors, Friends, businesses and locals who continue to support us and enable us, as an arts charity, to keep delivering exceptional music and arts events every year.”

* Reviewer Chloe Vereker enjoyed a festival concert by Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra last Tuesday.

She wrote: “What do you get if you mix the misty mysterious Yorkshire Dales with 15 musicians and one cool cat?

That’s right. The one and only Jools Holland and his fantastic 15-piece Rhythm and Blues Orchestra playing the Grassington Festival: A sight and sound to behold.

Sat at his Baby Grand, almost centre stage, with his Cheshire cat smile, Jools entranced us from the outset with his magnificent piano poetry. Twirling his magician’s fingers and making those keys dance and sing, his musical wizardry amazed us all.

His constantly shifting eclectic range of tempo, mood, sound and style from Deep South jazz to 80’s Ska, Louis Armstrong blues to soulful ballads, kept us deeply awe inspired.

A natural entertainer, performer and compere, Jools obviously relished the company and camaraderie of his large on stage orchestra.

Enjoying and introducing his gathering of saxophonists, trumpeters, percussionists and his old-time friend and drummer, Gilson Lavis, he went on to accompany his fabulous female vocalists.

Louise Marshall, Mabel Ray and the legendary Ruby Turner brought down the house with their booming funk and soul.

But of all Jools’ myriad of marvellous guests, it was Chris Difford who stole the show. Taking Jools back to his time in Squeeze in 1979, jamming away on acoustic guitar with a nonchalant Cockney lilt, tugging at hearts and rousing people from their rows.

As the orchestra pelted out ‘Enjoy Yourself’, the crowd certainly did, singing loudly along in unison.

“Grassington, we have had a beautiful time with you tonight,” said Jools.

I think it would be fair to say, even the cool cats in the crowd did too.