REDBROOK welcomed nearly 1,000 people across the weekend for this year's Live on the Wye Festival.

The festival kicked off on Friday evening (12th June) at The Bell Inn with top quality music from the Wow Signal, Sera and Southern Harmony. Festival-goers braved the rain to fill the courtyard and give the musicians an excellent reception.

Saturday thankfully remained largely dry despite a dismal forecast that never materialised. This meant visitors could fully enjoy the outstanding calibre of the bands – most of whom were billed as up-and-coming original talent from across Wales and the West.

Particular highlights were Siôn Russell Jones - an acclaimed songwriter who belted out a string of infectious songs – and Broken Fires, whose stadium-quality alternative pop melodies carried across the field. Both acts were inundated by queues of people waiting to purchase signed copies of their new albums. Eclectic songstress Maddie Jones joined Siôn on stage for an impromptu duet, much to the delight of onlookers.

Sicknote Steve played a superb session of blues, enticing many people to their feet. Dancing continued into the night with Stereosonics, an outstanding UK tribute act, receiving a brilliant reception as main stage headliners. They played many Stereophonics favourites, including Dakota and Thousand Trees.

In a last second surprise addition to the bill, Suzy Condrad, a UK live looping champion, also took to the stage.

In total, 15 bands played across the weekend. There was also a big emphasis on family entertainment, locally sourced food and a new crafts market for 2015. Local charity Tools for Self Reliance brought a forge to the festival, demonstrating blacksmith skills to raise awareness of their aim to send refurbished tools to disadvantaged African communities.

Creative Mindz kept children entertained with free-running demonstrations, fancy dress and arts workshops.

 Chairperson Sarah Sheasby said: "So many visitors commented on the beautiful setting, the incredible music line up, the friendliness of the village and the good value for money.

"We'd like to say a huge thanks to our volunteers, supporters and sponsors for helping us to make this our best Live on the Wye to date - including Sunshine Radio, Kingstone Brewery, Network Events and our headline sponsors the Monmouthshire and Chepstow Beacon." 

All proceeds raised from ticket sales go to the Redbrook Village Trust to reinvest in village activities and amenities.

Above pictures courtesy of Tom Hunter Photography