STEEPLE Morden s first Cowslip Festival was such a success that organisers are already looking forward to next year. More than 200 visitors braved inclement weather conditions to visit the festival, which was held at Steeple Morden conservation area. Bria

STEEPLE Morden's first Cowslip Festival was such a success that organisers are already looking forward to next year.

More than 200 visitors braved inclement weather conditions to visit the festival, which was held at Steeple Morden conservation area.

Brian Spall, one of the festival organisers, said: "We didn't have the best day weather-wise, but the festival was still very popular.

"Lots of people took the opportunity to be part of guided tours of the conservation area. The main aim of the day was to promote the existence of the cowslip meadow - I'd lived in the next village for 20 years but didn't even know it was there until I moved to Steeple Morden."

As well taking tours, visitors were able to browse a number of stalls set up by village groups including the Scouts and the Womens' institute. There were also display boards on show from organisations such as South Cambs District Council and the Woodland Trust.

Mr Spall added that proceeds will go towards helping clear the brook that runs through the site. He said: "It's a long term project really, but we hope to get some of the work started soon.

"The festival went down so well that we're hoping to hold a similar event again next year," he said.