A TREASURED Wokingham event was a big hit with the crowds this bank holiday weekend.
Founded 15 years ago by local resident Stan Heatherington, Wokingham Music Festival boasts a range of artists and bands, with a ‘something for everyone’ approach that hits the mark.
Billed as a family-friendly alternative to Reading Festival for those who want less ‘mud and mayhem’ it really lives up to its aims.
It’s fun, friendly and very civilised, and because it’s not too big, it’s very easy to enjoy.
This year’s event was warm and welcoming; offering great music, brews in the Twyford Beer Festival tent, and a fun, relaxed and safe atmosphere.
Sited at Cantley Park, where it is completely enclosed with manned entry, children can enjoy the run of the field.
And while they potter about near family picnic rugs, or enjoy trying out circus skills, adults can bask in the summer sunshine from the comfort of camping chairs, or dance and sing to festival sounds.
Festival-goers Steve and Vicky captured the event’s appeal perfectly.
“It’s amazing, so friendly,” they said.
“We’ve been here all day and the atmosphere has been really easy and relaxed.
“It’s nice to be able to sit down and not have to worry about anything.
“We loved listening to Third Lung in particular.”
Nigel, Lisa and Alexandra were also enjoying the sunshine, the vibe, and sampling cocktails at the bar.
For those not picnicking, there is a range of food available, including: burgers, street food, Mexican, Thai, pizza, fries, hot-dogs and ice-creams.
And there’s just the right amount of merchandise to tempt, but not to overwhelm.
Bins are constantly emptied, and not a scrap of litter is left.
Another plus must be the event’s portable toilets, described by one of the volunteer team as ‘pristine’.
This year’s line-up saw back to back music from the festival’s two stages.
On Saturday the Main Stage saw performances from: He Fired First, Sugar and Sex, One Eyed Man, Selena and the Howlin Dogs, Makeshifts, Bone-Idle, Vintage Sound Collective, and Our Own Way – Fleetwood Mac Tribute.
The Marquee Stage hosted: Glitch, HatsTM, The Julia Set, Madi C, Bevendene, Rocket Kings, Puma Theory, and China Bears.
On Sunday on the Main Stage were: Mike Lemin, Revolver, Red Hoax Chili Peppers, Josh Roberts, Natalie Gray, Third Lung, Bottle Kids, and A Head Full of Coldplay.
Entertaining at the Marquee Stage were: Verdagears, Veronica Drozdowski, Tasia, Cold July, Kaysha Louvain, Paytron Saint, The Stretch, and Bonnie and the Jets.
On Monday the Main stage boasted: Neon Fields, Ruby Dawn, John Hackett Band, EBB, Solstice and Tom Robinson Band.
On The Marquee Stage festival goers were able to see: Dikajee, AlphaLine, Leonie Jakobi, The Bluepers, and The Dead Can Wait.
Fun fact: The pink guitar played by The Bluepers’ talented lead singer Harvey was made by his dad, Rob.
Music, while plenty loud enough in the arena, was surprisingly well-contained from near neighbours.
Event sponsors are: TradeMark Windows Doors & Conservatories, Stowhill Estates, Sydenhams, St. Vincents Veterinary Surgery, Generation Studio, White Star Records, Jamma, and Radio Wigwam.
As well as enjoying the festival Mark, Phil and Darren from TradeMark were celebrating with team member Sally, retiring after 25 years with the firm.
Wokingham Festival is non-profit making, and organised by dedicated locals; the Festival directors are Dean Nelson, Helen Taylor, Julie WIlls, Chris Hillman and Andrew Merritt.
With the help of their enthusiastic team of ‘wonderful volunteers’ they make the festival the great success that it is.
For information, visit: wokinghamfestival.co.uk
