Smiling makes the day go quicker, according to manic rockers Tankus the Henge.
That would explain why the Wickham Festival has flown by!
There were smiles all round as the sun shone for four glorious days of wonderful music in that unique chilled yet vibrant atmosphere which makes this event so special.
A major highlight on the final day was the trademark high-octane set from Tankus the Henge who said they feel as though Wickham is their home after a third visit due to popular demand.
Lead singer Jaz Delorean is an incredible showman, leaping onto his piano which pumped out dry ice… though it could equally have been on fire such was the energy in the show.
That set the tone for a pumped-up party on the Village Stage with the ever-popular Red Hot Chilli Pipers raising the tempo with a pounding selection of rock classics on bagpipes!
And then came an electrifying collection of punk anthems from the Undertones who brought the festival to a raucous crescendo to leave the crowd breathless.
With both big tops now classed as main stages, this was a dance venue while the Valley Stage had a more laid-back feel to it albeit with two huge names from the folk rock world.
Legendary guitarist Richard Thompson blew the crowd away with a faultless exhibition of intricate fingerwork while former Bellowhead frontman Jon Boden provided a rousing finale to the festival.
Tickets are already on sale for next year (Aug 1-4) via this website at £120 – or return a booking form from the box office on site to secure an extra £20 discount giving you a full weekend ticket for just £100 – a saving of £80 on the full cost if returned before September 1.
Children under 10 will again be admitted free while those aged 10-16 will get in for half price.
Organiser Peter Chegwyn said: “It is our way of thanking fans for their support. They might not know who the acts will be but they do know they will enjoy them and, crucially, that the unique laid-back family-friendly atmosphere will remain the same.”
