Ireland's first big outdoor festival for the gay community may become a two-day event next year following the resounding success of the inaugural concert, which took place at a 400-year-old Irish castle at the weekend.

Over 5,000 concert goers descended on the strikingly beautiful grounds of Ballinlough Castle, County Westmeath, to see top acts such as X Factor winner Alexandra Burke and Leitrim-born comedian Katherine Lynch. Other performers included former page three girl-turned-out-and-proud-pop-singer Samantha Fox.

Organizers said yesterday that the plan next year is to extend the MILK festival to two days. 'Considering the success of the event, that should be achievable,' a spokesperson confirmed.

The concert also attracted some local celebrities. Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary, accompanied by his pregnant wife Anita, bopped away to 1980's icons Bananarama.

Named in honor of the veteran American gay rights campaigner and politician Harvey Milk, the festival is also the first in Ireland to target the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

Organizers said they hoped the festival, which welcomes all, would soon become the number one event on the European gay calendar.