The UK's largest show for Francophiles lived up to its promise of delivering a bigger and better show than ever before with a final visitor attendance for the weekend of 23,400 (excluding exhibitors and event staff).

Crowds were clearly not put off by the bitterly cold weather and turned up in high spirits to enjoy the extended entertainment at this year's event that included a petanque court, fully constructed single story oak frame and a Champagne and Oyster bar. Annual favourites included Jean-Christophe Novelli conjuring up culinary delights and spectacular peformances by dancers from the Moulin Rouge.

New exhibitor Canvas Holidays commented, "We have seen great interest in our stand. The tent along with the high energy game of Aeroball has been extremely popular. Lots of families have visited and entries for the competition have been non-stop. Everybody has been in good spirits creating a good atmosphere at the show. It is our first time at the show but has been a worthwhile experience. I would definitely consider coming back next year."

Regular exhibitor TV5 were extremely pleased with their increased pitch size this year. "We are happier with our larger stand and have seen a steady amount of people coming to watch the films. Many come here first to find out the film times, then plan their days around this so they can come back to watch them. It has been great being able to have a free internet kiosk available for the visitors to view our website and see TV listings. The atmosphere has been great at this years show with everybody genuinely pleased to be here."

The property section attracted many interested buyers and investors. Anthony Bucksey visited the show on Saturday from Ealing and told us; "I have always been interested in purchasing a second property in France as my wife and I love the country. But we have never taken the next step of talking it through with agents. The France show was an excellent platform for meeting those with professional knowledge and experience of dealing with people like me. They had the answers to all my questions and we left with some perfect properties to seriously consider."

The France Show 2009 certainly proved to be the hit we all hoped for and helped to lift many spirits at a time of economic gloom. During a period when many are tightening their purse strings, the show highlighted that France is still a great investment and offers an unrivalled lifestyle that appeals now more than ever to a huge audience.

For more information on booking a stand at The France Show 2010, please contact Kim Holtham, Exhibition Sales on 01242 211095 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

See The France Show website, www.thefranceshow.com, for updates coming soon on the 2010 show.