What a difference a year makes as Boo Hewerdine finally got his moment in the spotlight.
Twelve months ago he was booked to open the Wickham Festival but a 24-hour deluge meant the gates were opened just over an hour late.
Hewerdine literally played his entire set to just one man with fans finally allowed into the arena just as he was finishing the last song.
He was invited back for a Friday tea-time slot to show festival-goers just what they had missed first time around.
This time he drew a full-sized crowd who loved his magical mix of folk and rock which set the tempo for another great evening of entertainment.
Martyn Joseph’s soulful set and then the beautiful voice of Kate Rusby kept the fans entranced before Show of Hands rounded off the evening with a trademark powerhouse performance.
Music-lovers faced a tough choice however. The expanded second stage can now accommodate some hugely popular acts and Skipinnish went down a storm on the Village Stage.
They were followed by internet sensation Jonathan Pie who drew a big crowd to the comedy stage for his hilarious yet thought-provoking rant.
Barely pausing for breath in 40 minutes, the spoof political reporter delivered an incredible fast-paced series of sharp observations on politics and modern life, hitting his target time after time.
Saturday promises to be another wonderful day of entertainment with John Illsley of Dire Straits and Tom Robinson preceding headliners Squeeze who will be a big draw while the ever-popular Ferocious Dog top the bill on the Village Stage.
With more unbroken sunshine forecast, a big crowd is expected to sample the wide choice of food, real ales and ciders and beers as well as the many stalls and free children’s entertainment. Day tickets are on sale on site with children Under 10 admitted free and those aged 10-16 getting half-price. Parking is free and plentiful.
