Boomtown Rats to play free village festival

Wellowfest, which has been running annually for the past three years, is to play host to the band who had 12 top-40 hits in the 1970s and 80s.

Organiser David Chapelhow said: “They are from my era, and I was looking to get a more recognised band to help promote the other bands.

“It took about three months to persuade them but they were really positive about it.

“A band that big would not normally come to a free village festival!

“I’m just ecstatic, petrified about the cost because we do it all for free and it does cost a lot,

“But I do think it’s a major coup!”

The three-day festival was the brainchild of Mr Chapelow three years ago after wanting to create a platform for showcasing local talent.

Around 800 people usually attend the gathering at Chapel Farm in Wellow, but more than 2,500 tickets are now set to be printed for next year’s event which will be held from July 15 to 17.

More than 1,100 have been snapped up already.

Up to 20 bands gave been so far booked to play, and a second stage is being planned for the first time.

All of the food and drink sold over the weekend is sourced locally in a bid to help boost the local economy.

“It started off as a party three years ago, everybody was so depressed about the recession, so that’s how it

came about,” added Mr Chapelhow.

“We got some amazing feedback from everybody about how fantastic it was so it went from there.”

Although entry is free, tickets need to be applied for beforehand.

The Boomtown Rats will perform on the Saturday evening, but in order to ensure a healthy crowd throughout the day, a £30 fee will be charged at the gate for anyone who enters the site after

3pm.

A VIP after-show champagne party is also planned for the Saturday in which revellers can meet and speak with Bob Geldof and the Boomtown Rats.

However, a charge of £75 has been put in place for the after-show party, with the money going towards local charities.

Tickets for the party are limited to 150.

Weekend camping is also available by bringing your own tent with a charge of £20 per person, or by hiring a limited number of tents that can sleep up to six people.

For details or to apply for the free tickets. phone 07860807665 or email [email protected]

Meanwhile, potential sponsors are being asked to contact Mr Chapelhow on the same telephone or email address.