NORTHWICH Festival is harnessing the town’s abundant community spirit as it returns for a 35th year.

The popular August Bank Holiday event at Moss Farm has built on previous years and listened to feedback – leading to a first ever sell-out and a true ‘something for everyone’ programme.

Festival coordinator Eddy Naylor says the success stories across town have helped inspire the activities on offer, including a Fizz and Frocks event, accessible family fun day and sold out gig from top Oasis tribute act ‘Stop the Clocks’, supported by Reclaim Vienna and Callow Youth.

“The festival has been going for a long time, and this year we are trying to put a different, more modern slant on things,” Eddy said.

“It started out as a festival of sport, and has developed over time to become the town-wide celebration it is today.

“It’s really encouraging that people are getting involved in what’s going on in their town and supporting what’s going on in the area, as proven with events like the River Festival and artisan market.

“We have never had a sell-out gig before, so we want to say a massive thank you in advance for the support of people in Northwich, who are trusting in us to put on a good event.”

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The four-day celebration, from Friday, August 23 through to Bank Holiday Monday, August 26, includes the revamped Cheshire Independent Living Awareness Day on the opening day in association with CCIL and Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Further highlights include the traditional Northwich RUFC fixture – this time against Macclesfield on Saturday – and a fairground.

Eddy said: “We are celebrating what is already going on in Northwich – for example we asked businesses to donate prizes and had a phenomenal response. It’s great that they are willing to support positive events in the town, whether it’s a voucher for a hairdressers’ or a coffee shop.

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“We did a lot to ask people what they wanted from the festival. There was a lot of feedback and that has led to things like live music, bar offers, and the Fizz and Frocks event with Bella Boutique who were really keen to get on board.”

There will also be sporting events with Northwich SuperStars and Sale Sharks, as well as food and artisan traders – along with Northwich Sports Bar’s offering – across all four days.

Sunday brings the popular motorbike and scooter day, followed by an open mic night and Monday’s family fun day, with fairground rides and games.

Head to ‘Northwich Festival 2019’ on Facebook for a full programme of events and updates, offers and more.