Blues Festival is a hit

(Pictures by Stuart Coleman Photography)

PACKED VENUES resonated with the sound of music as the annual Diggle Blues Festival brought the village to life.

THUMBS UP: Dave Wood and Victor Brox
THUMBS UP: Dave Wood and Victor Brox

The free event saw ten bands and artists perform at various locations over three days, with staggered start times ensuring revellers did not miss a beat.

And the festival proved so successful that organiser David Wood is already looking forward to next year’s event.

He said: “The event went very well. All venues were full, with some packed to capacity with many people listening outside.

PLUCKY: Big Jo Bone
PLUCKY: Big Jo Bone

The weather was dry, which helped when people walked from one venue to another during what turned out to be a musical tour of Diggle.

“It is proving to be a very popular, family-friendly, community event. We are confident it will be staged next year and for many years to come. Here’s looking forward to next year!”

Fundraising and audience donations helped to cover costs and secure next year’s festival, which boosts business for the venues as well as providing a musical delight.

SPIRITED: Bourbon Street Preachers at Kilngreen Hall
SPIRITED: Bourbon Street Preachers at Kilngreen Hall

Stuart Coleman, chairman of the Diggle Community Association, added: “The festival was a huge success thanks to the hard work of David and his team and the enthusiasm of the audiences.

“Fundraising has been challenging but thanks to the Saddleworth and Lees District Partnership, Voluntary Action Oldham and the kindness of local business and residents, the books have balanced.

“The Diggle Blues Festival is a fantastic event which attracts people from across the country. It’s great that our proud little village is able to host this tribute to the blues and live music.”

REFLECTIVE: Arthur Cale, Mick Spag at the Hanging Gate
REFLECTIVE: Arthur Cale, Mick Spag at the Hanging Gate

 

 CRACKERJACK: Babajack
CRACKERJACK: Babajack