Still glowing from accolades for last year’s Village Pump Folk Festival held in Westbury, organisers are gearing up for this year’s event on 22nd – 24th July at the White Horse Country Park – and have announced an impressive line-up of big names which includes the Proclaimers and two top radio DJs – Andy Kershaw and Mark Radcliffe.
Seasoned independent reviewers from the web-site www.festivalsforall .com hailed last year’s festival as, “Virtually flawless from start to finish” and “one of the friendliest festivals we’ve had the pleasure to review.”
Festival director John Alderslade said, “We’ve again managed to get some of the best acts in folk, roots and acoustic music from all over the UK and beyond.
“The Proclaimers are returning after their very successful appearance in 2013 and acts like Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin, Martin Simpson and Don Flemons, The Phil Beer Band, and O’Hooley and Tidow are the very best in their field.
“Lynched, from Ireland, are being tipped by many as ‘the next big thing’ and have appeared recently on the ‘Jools Holland Show, while Neville Staple (formerly a key member of The Specials) will be bringing a touch of reggae and ska. For those who like a head-banging party we have Ferocious Dog. Gentler melodious sounds will be provided by top Scottish bands Breabach and Barluath.
“Many of our acts have won, or been nominated for, Radio 2 Folk Awards and, for something a bit different, this year we have two top BBC Radio and TV presenters – Mark Radcliffe and Andy Kershaw.
“Mark, well known for the ‘Folk Show’ and other Radio 2 and 6 Music shows will be here with his band Galleon Blast; while Andy, currently a reporter on ‘The One Show’, has done more than anyone else to make world music popular through his radio shows and he’s going to be bringing his World Music Disco.
“Several dance sides will be performing over the weekend and there will be two ceilidhs with top bands. Workshops, sessions, open mics, yoga, Tai chi, Nia and the Village Pump choir will give opportunities for anyone who wants to do more than just watch. And there will be a full family programme, making the Pump a great weekend for Pumpers of all ages.
“From early Friday evening to last thing Sunday night, your weekend ticket enables you to see our great range of performers for around 30-plus hours across three stages.
“We can boast very high production values for a small festival. All venues are under cover, with top quality sound, great lighting (including illuminating the White Horse) and a good variety of food and drink. The bars at the 2015 event were able to offer 15 beers including a special brew called Phil Beer. There is also a good range of trade and craft stalls.
“The White Horse site is very well drained (just as well in 2015), flat and easy to get in and out, and all camping is just a short walk from the venues. Unlike some other festivals, camping and car parking is included in the ticket price.
“If you’ve been before, you’ll understand why we say this is ‘The best little fest in the west.’ If you haven’t, why not give it try and see if you agree?
“It’s knowing that what we’re doing is so highly regarded that makes the unpaid volunteer team behind the festival so keen.”
