COLWYN Bay's 1940s Festival brought in a £250,000 cash boost to the town this year.

Organisers behind April’s annual event said the economic benefits to the town had “significantly increased” compared to last year with an estimated £250,000 pumped into the town's economy over the festival’s two days.

This was despite an overall drop in visitor numbers, with a higher percentage of people visiting from outside of the area and more people staying in paid accommodation.

Organiser Teresa Carnall, of the Bay of Colwyn Business Network, said: “We weren’t expecting anywhere near this figure. To see it increase so much is absolutely fantastic.

“It is only going to grow year on year. Last year’s event brought in £160,000 to Colwyn Bay.”

According to research by Conwy County Council, three quarters per cent of those in the town centre during the two days came for the festival, with a further 13 per cent saying they were slightly influenced to visit by the festival.

Almost half of those asked said they were staying in the area overnight.

Researchers said the timing of the event, which coincided with the Easter school holidays also contributed to the increase in visitors from outside the area. Organisers said they were encouraged to read that 43 per cent of those who came to the festival regard themselves as regular visitors.

Ms Carnall added: “Bringing people into Colwyn Bay is what it was all about, and increasing revenue for businesses in the town.

“By bringing people in they can see what we’ve got here.”

A quarter of those who attended heard about the event through word of mouth, with 16 per cent reading about it in a newspaper and seven per cent having been to the event before.

Visitors suggested improved signage and information, outside seating at cafes, a parade, more advertising, more on-street entertainment and better parking as key ways the festival could be improved.

Cllr Graham Rees, Conwy's Cabinet member for tourism, marketing and leisure, said: “The event was an excellent boost for the town and we’re pleased to have been able to provide support.

“The organisers and participants deserve congratulations for all their hard work and commitment.”