THOUSANDS of people visited Wrexham for the return on a popular music festival.

FOCUS Wales was supposed to launch its 10th edition of the festival in 2020, which sadly had to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, despite the wait, there were smiles all around as music lovers came to the North Wales county.

The special anniversary event got underway on Thursday, October 7 until October 9.

Organiser Neal Thompson said they expect around 10,000 to 15,000 arrived to the town, building on 2019’s record attendance.

He told the Leader: "We haven't got the final numbers but we expect we had just shy of 15,000 people.

"It was one of the first major events to come back and we weren't sure what it would be like.

"We put loads of measures in place to make sure people were safe. People had to take a lateral flow test every day which they had to show a negative result to get in.

"It was well attended. Probably beyond what we thought. In the back of our minds we did think people would perhaps be more cautious but I like to think we put all the measures in place to feel safe and we are really pleased with how it went."

FOCUS Wales is an international multi-venue showcase festival taking place in Wrexham, which places the music industry spotlight firmly on the emerging talent that Wales has to offer.

With over 250 artists and bands, film screenings and arts events, the events was spread out onto 20 stages across the town at venues including Ty Pawb, St Giles, Llwyn Isaf, the Wynnstay Hotel and many more.

As well as proving a negative lateral flow test, additional security was put in place.

Neal added: "It was a multi-venue event but everyone had to go to one place to show their test results and we sold a lot of tickets on the day.

"We had a mobile testing unit parked on Queen's Square that was there for the three days which was absolutely brilliant. We more than doubled on security to make sure we were checking everyone and it was all safe.

"We had a wristband for those who proved a negative test which made it easier for them to get in and out of places. The measures were over and beyond what we'd normally have done but the priority was safety and the response was brilliant.

"It was really good to see everyone get on board with it little to no trouble."

FOCUS Wales has also announced its dates for May next year with early bird tickets already 'flying out'.

Neal said: "It was great being able to do the event this year. It was great for people to come out and enjoy the music but also great for bands and artists who have had that opportunity to play again."