Rock veterans the Rolling Stones may have stolen the show at Glastonbury Festival on Saturday, but at Mantonfest, in the Marlborough countryside, local bands stole the limelight.
Established acts NewQuay Times, Jo Peskett, Mothers Jam, Josh Baldock, Angela Jones performed in bright sunshine to a happy crowd, grateful to have avoided the rain of last year.
Meanwhile, newcomers Mike Booth and Marcella, All Cramped Up, Empty Gestures, Ways to Wear Shade, and Josie and the Outlaw who had some help from a young member of the audience (see photograph) were welcomed with open arms.
Musician Stuart Whant had his work cut out, not only directing the festival but also appearing in not one, but two lineups: Skedaddle and headliners Straight Six.
Organiser Roger Grant, said “This has been an exceptionally good day and a considerable amount has been raised for Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Manton Village Hall.
“We will be starting work for next year’s Mantonfest very shortly which I hope will be even bigger and better.”
Pictures courtesy of Val Compton
Green-fingered children get involved in a blooming good idea to help bees
