Local News

Waldstock 2011: Saffron Walden's very own music festival Karen, 31 May 2011

What do we want?
Waldstock!
When do we want it?
Now!



Well, you can’t have it – not yet at least. But you can buy tickets in advance for Saffron Walden’s very own music festival, which runs from July 22-24.


A three day pass can be bought in exchange for a mere £12, which gives raising money for local charities the holder access to 25 top notch bands, performing live (and for free) in the grounds of the Fighting Cocks, Wendens Ambo.  All proceeds go to charity, and, as there will be limited tickets available on the door, why not take advantage of advanced sales on eBay, in Saffron Walden Tourist Information or the pub itself.

To find out more I spoke to the main festival co-ordinator, Barney, one member of a team including Jess, Steve, Paul, Joe, Darren and countless other volunteers. Now in its second year, Barney explained the ethos of Waldstock is to raise money for local charities through the power of the music loving community. Last year £2000 was given to 3 days, 25 bandsCarver Barracks’ Injured Soldiers’ Fund and two guitars were presented to Uttlesford Youth Music Project at Fairycroft House. This year Barney hopes higher ticket sales will mean even more donations to good causes, such as MEDICS, The Funky Flamingo Club (disability club and arts group in Cambridge) and Uttlesford Volunteer Centre.

Barney told Walden Local Food reporter Karen, “local support, both last and this year, has been amazing!”. Thanks to the assistance and hardwork of Norman and Diane at the Fighting Cocks, there is something for everyone at Waldstock, from real ale drinkers to those with afesty fun for the entire family penchant for face painting, clowns and bouncy castles. A sparklingly wide variety of music genres are on offer: Friday night is rock night (huh!), whereas Saturday and Sunday are both family orientated (Sunday being the "Wind Down" - an afternoon of folk, jazz, blues and to help nurse those Saturday night hangovers).

A year ago, when taking over the reins of a smaller event, Barney said to himself - “I bet I can make this happen”. With a passion for live music and the help of a good team, he jolly well has.

Tickets are selling
like hot potatoes,
so get yours now

 

 

 

Bands include:

All the way from South London - ZOCALO (supporting Judas Priest on Saturday 23rd July in London), headlining Friday night.

Local favourites - The Wrinklies; AlicebanD and Eva's Dream.

From Bishops Stortford - The Strangerhood (as seen at Stortford Music Festival).

From Camden - energy fuelled 3 piece Ivan And The Wolves.

From Sawbridgeworth, rockers, The Pins, head the Sunday bill.

Cambridge favourites, folk act Fred's House (fresh from radio play on BBC Cambridgeshire) perform on Sunday.

The wonderful Gema Hadridge brings her songwriting to the Wind Down.

 

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Tickets : : on eBay or Saffron Walden Tourist Information