Wickham rolled out the red carpet for rock and roll royalty as the 2019 festival got off to a superb start
Two music legends took to the Valley Stage to set a high bar for the rest of the event with an awesome double-header.
Graham Nash rolled back the years with a magnificent set which went down a storm with the crowd.
Twice inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he dipped into his extensive back catalogue with a string of crowd-pleasers which sounded as fresh as ever.
It was a tough act for his close friend Judy Collins to follow but if anything her set was even more incredible, if only for the way this multi-talented star showed she is still going strong.
Astonishingly even at the grand age of 80, her crystal voice is still as pure and as delicate as ever sending shivers down the spine.
Her impromptu rendition of Oh Danny Boy was just beautiful alongside such favourites as Both Sides Now and Send in the Clowns.
But the most special treat was reserved for the encore as she performed a heart-rending new song Dreamers, despite previously saying she wouldn’t perform it outside the USA.
The hardest part of the day for fans was choosing between so many top acts. While Judy Collins was sweetly serenading the Valley Stage, the Proclaimers were rocking it up on the Village Stage.
They rolled out all their big anthems in a storming set which kept up the momentum set by Skinny Lister’s raucous rampage.
The two double-acts ensured the opening night was a big success on both stages which now have equal billing.
Sadly, Nash had to leave quickly after his set and was unable to join Judy Collins on stage for a duet.
Other highlights included Matthews Southern Comfort and the ever-popular Steve Knightley as well as John Jones and the Reluctant Ramblers who walked 13 miles to the festival before performing an impromptu song for those queueing at the ticket office.
There are limited day tickets available for Friday and Saturday but these are going fast so fans are advised to arrive early, cash sales only.
Weekend season tickets for next year (August 6-9) are now available at £110 for adults… a saving of £90 if bought before Sunday evening. Cheques and cash will be accepted.
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