Holton-le-Clay's annual music festival really rocks

HUNDREDS of people packed the outfield at Holton-le-Clay Cricket Club for the village's annual music festival.

Now in its third year, Holton Rocks has proved a hit with young and old alike, its eclectic mix of musical acts attracting crowds from both within the village and further afield.

Performers this year included Robbie Williams tribute act Mike Andrews, as well as local bands Decoy, Crossfire and Theory 59, who earlier this year featured on Radio One.

Away from the main stage there were bouncy castles and other entertainment for the kids, and the day was rounded off by a spectacular fireworks display.

The event was first held three years ago to raise funds for the cricket club, and has already established itself as a permanent fixture in the village's social calendar.

Mark Wainwright, one of the band of volunteers which help put the festival together, said: "It's just a good family day out. We cater for everybody with all genres of music and every year people can't wait for the next one."

Fellow organiser Steve Hildrith said: "We have a team of about 15 volunteers who have been camped out for three days helping us set up. It's just a good thing for the village."

Singer Hudson Lewis, of Cleethorpes, was the first act on stage, performing a mix of rock, pop, soul and swing covers.

He said: "It's the first time I have done Holton Rocks and I really enjoyed it.

"There's something here for all the family. My daughter is three and she's been blown away by the bouncy castle. It is a really well-organised event and I would love to do it again."

For the bassist in three-piece band Decoy, it was a chance to perform on home turf.

Daz Davis, who hails from the village, said: "It does make it extra special as I know just about everybody in the crowd! We do a lot of bikers rallies and outdoor events like this are ideal for us."

Meanwhile, for Humberston four-piece Theory 59, the event was the ideal preparation for next month's Reading and Leeds festivals.

The band, who count Muse and Foals among their influences, performed songs from their first EP Sleepless, as well as some new songs they are currently recording.

Vocalist, guitarist and songwriter Ashton Grimble said: "It's nice to do local festivals and it will give us a taste of what to expect when we play at Reading and Leeds."

Among those in the crowd enjoying the event was villager Hank Fister, 56, who said: "I didn't go to the first event because I was at the Mathew Street Festival in Liverpool, but that is not a patch on this.

"It is organised by local people, it caters for the kids and the music is great."

Andy Pflanz, 60, from New Waltham, said: "It's a good day out. There are young and old here, it's nice and friendly, and the bands have been good."