ALLERFORD staged a celebration of rural life and showed off its attractions at an open day last Saturday.

For the second year running local facilities – from businesses to the volunteer-run museum – opened their doors en masse.

And several hundred visitors flocked to the picturesque village to see what it had to offer.

West Country Blacksmiths, based at Allerford Forge, ran demonstrations throughout the day while nearby Cross Lane House hotel and restaurant held a floristry masterclass and gave visitors a glimpse at how its chefs cook up a storm using local produce.

The West Somerset Rural Life Museum offered free entry for the day and there was a special exhibition of carving at Piles Mill.

There were also games and activities for youngsters, a car boot sale and demonstrations by guest craftsman, including chainsaw artist Matthew Crabb.

Kieren Roberts from Allerford Forge, one of the organisers, said the event had been a great success.

"The village is only small but we wanted to do something to help put it on the map," he said.

"We wanted it to be as rounded a day as possible, providing something for all ages and I think we achieved it.

"A lot of families turned up and I think everyone in the village played their part in helping to make it a success – we were really pleased with the response.

"Hopefully, when people see the signs for Allerford they'll remember that it's got an awful lot to offer visitors."

Photos: Paul Scullion