Upton Blues Festival returns

12:10am Monday 21st July 2008

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THE pubs in Upton-upon-Severn were overflowing with people as thousands visited the blues festival.

The rain held off as music lovers gathered in the riverside town for the annual event, which was a complete wash out 12 months ago because of flooding.

Organiser Tina Dixon said: “This was the festival we aimed to put on last year.

“It’s been a re-run of what should have happened, plus a few extra surprises thrown in, and it’s been absolutely brilliant. There were people hanging out of pub doors and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.”

The free three-day festival, which ran from Friday until Sunday evening, attracts people from all over the country. In 2006, the estimated attendance was 20,000 and this year it was the same, if not more.

Stephen Rogers, aged 24, of London Road, Worcester, went along for the first time.

He expected it to be similar to the town’s annual jazz festival, but was surprised by the differences.

“The atmosphere was great,” he said.

“Everything was free and all the bands were in the pubs. We went to the King’s Head, where there was a marquee outside, then the Anchor, which was rammed with people; somehow we managed to find a seat.”

Enjoying the range of real ales and beers, Mr Rogers said he would definitely return with even more friends in tow next year.

Over the weekend the main stage, Under The Bridge, was graced by the likes of Mike Sanchez, Eddie Martin, Connie Lush and Blues Shouter.

“I’m shattered but I’ve really enjoyed myself,” said Ms Dixon.

“For me, the highlight was Connie Lush. It was the first time she’d played here and I know she’ll come back. She really ripped it up and nearly raised the roof off the bridge.

On Sunday morning, the IDMC Gospel Choir from London gave their ever-popular annual service in conjunction with Upton’s churches together.