SWINDON’S first vegan festival went down a treat at the weekend and will be even bigger and better next year.

The event, held at The Victoria in Old Town on Sunday, saw hundreds of people descend on the pub to enjoy an afternoon of food and music and to learn all about veganism.

Organiser Kelz Clarkson, 34, from Rodbourne, converted from vegetarianism to veganism in January last year.

“I’m so excited to see it all come together,” she said. “Today is all about celebrating veganism and I am thrilled to see so many people here.”

Kelz described veganism as “a lifestyle choice” concerned with “protecting your health, the environment and animals”.

A range of stalls offered people the opportunity to learn more about it, with experts and seasoned vegans on hand to give advice.

Kelz said: “We want to give people all the information they need if they are thinking about becoming vegan.

“We have stalls selling vegan hair products, vegan cakes and a chance for people to see what life is like for animals in factory farms.”

Vegans and non-vegans alike were treated to live music and guest speakers during the afternoon, as well as being handed many tasty dishes to try.

Chrissy Tomlinson, 22, from Eldene, said: “I think it’s fantastic that something like this has come to Swindon.

“A few of my friends at uni are vegan, and it’s something I’ve thought about getting into for a while – so it’s good to be presented with so much information.

“One of the problems I find is that there’s not a lot of help out there for people who want to try veganism as a lifestyle, so something like this is great - I will definitely come again if they do it next year.”

Speakers at the festival included photographer Emma Lord who will display images of rescued animals and Tony Bloomfield from Animal Equality.

The charity provided headsets which showed real footage from inside abattoirs and factory farms, something which Kelz said made her husband decide to become vegan.

Matt Price, 28, from North Swindon, also thought the festival a huge success.

“I’m not vegan myself, but I think it’s a good way of protecting the environment, and the food is actually really nice.”

Kelz added: “It’s the first time we have done anything like this, and we will definitely do it again next year.”