Singing in the rain as Woolley Festival proves a hit (From Wiltshire Times)

Singing in the rain as Woolley Festival proves a hit

12:00pm Saturday 21st July 2012 in Latest News By Will Frampton

Revellers at the Woolley Festival were driven under cover by the rain, but still got to hear music from about 40 acts.

Now in its 14th year, the festival – held in a field opposite Woolley Grange Hotel – had extra covered areas to cope with the forecast wet weather.

Although rain led to a decrease in attendance, many of those who made it acclaimed this year’s event as the best Woolley Festival ever staged.

Festival director Darren Taylor, the landlord of The George where the festival started, said organisers had received a lot of positive feedback on Facebook.

He said: “There was a great atmosphere and everyone said the music was the best we have had, both in the variety and the performances themselves.

“They also said all the stalls and entertainment and activities were the best ever as well, so we are very pleased. It was just a shame about the rain.

“Unfortunately, I don’t think we had quite enough people to cover our costs, so we may not be able to donate any funds to charity, which would be a real shame.

“But the festival will be back next year and, hopefully, with a bit of sun we can collect a bit more.”

The festival began on Friday with music from seven bands and games and inflatables for children. On Saturday it ran all day with stalls, food and a cocktail tent, with dance music alongside stage acts.

More bands on Sunday brought the festival to a finale.

Performers included Corsham band Corinthian Casuals, Holt act The Twisted Lanes and Cricklade singer/songwriter Ellie Ponting.

If any profits are raised over the costs of the festival, the money will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.