AFTER Larmer Tree Festival took a year off to refresh and come back for 2018, I'm sure I wasn't alone in hoping they hadn't changed too much or lost that magical essence which entices people to return year after year.

I'm happy to confirm organisers have only enhanced this recipe for success.

Full of joy, fun activities, eclectic acts, great music, delicious food and happy campers, Larmer Tree Festival 2018 exceeded expectations.

The tweaks which have been made are welcome, and the traditional attractions remain.

It was like slipping on those comfy slippers, just with a bit more padding.

Friday night saw a packed out lawn for the main stage headliner Jake Bugg with a top line up of comedy in The Arc featuring Jen Brister and Mark Watson.

Sun kissed faces were out early on Saturday, ready to kick off the weekend with coffee, or yoga or Tai Chi on the lawn, or perhaps a rejuvenating dip in a hot tub or a browse through the quirky vintage stalls.

Saturday was also ladies day. With all the acts on the main stage female artists, the range of music on offer was vast. The hauntingly beautiful tones of Jones contrasted fantastically against the pop vibe from Naaz, a perfect pick me up on a warm afternoon.

Ibibio Sound Machine tore up the stage in the early evening, eradicating the sleepy afternoon haze and injecting some electricity with their West African funk/disco/electro.

Tune Yards brought something different yet again, including an on stage proposal (she said yes) before First Aid Kit were cheered on stage for their headline set. It was clear this was the act many had been waiting for and with their captivating vocals and empowering message, they did not disappoint.

However, one of the best things about Larmer Tree is that on the smaller stages around the site, you will hear something so perfect it will make your experience unforgettable.

And for those who didn't see Hudson Taylor in The Arc, you missed a real treat. Reminiscent of Avett Brothers, with flavours of Simon and Garfunkel, this duo were the highlight of the whole weekend for me. The energy, talent and exquisite sound they produced was the perfect cherry of top of a very large cake.

Hopefully they'll be back next year on a bigger stage. We certainly will be. The dates are already confirmed.