By Graham Hiley
Even the rain could not dampen spirits on the opening day of the Wickham Festival.
There was a defiant party mood among fans determined to enjoy the music despite the days of heavy rain which left the ground soft and, in places, muddy.
And their commitment was rewarded with a fantastic evening featuring two very different types of music on the two main stages.
Big Top 1 featured more traditional folk fare with Alistair Russell kicking things off well before Martyn Joseph blew the crowd away with a superb set of soulful songs.
Track Dogs, making their Wickham bow, quickly won over the fans with their eclectic style before Show of Hands brought the evening to a close with their usual panache featuring guest appearances from Johnny Kalsi and Track Dogs.
Former Radio One controller and Folk on Foot presenter Matthew Bannister also took to the stage to promote his Big Walk from Wickham to Suffolk to raise money for Help Musicians. Click here for details and to donate.
Meanwhile in Big Top 2 there was something a little different for Wickham with two tribute acts in Fleetwood Collective and 21st Century Abba who both went down a storm.
There was a real party atmosphere with fans loving the chance to dance to so many familiar old favourites.
Organiser Peter Chegwyn said: “It was a bit of a new venture for us and it seemed to go down well. With more traditional folk acts on the other stage it meant there was something for everyone.
“It was great to see so many smiling faces despite some difficult conditions caused by the relentless rain in the days leading up to the event.
“We are very grateful to fans for their patience and understanding while our staff work tirelessly to minimise the impact of some dreadful weather. And despite the rain, the music is as good as ever to ensure everyone has a good time.”
Tickets for the remaining days of Wickham Music Festival are still available, see www.wickhamfestival.co.uk for more details.
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