The Wickham Festival was touched by greatness as Van Morrison showed just why he is one of the biggest names in rock music.
The evergreen icon turned in a supremely slick set to reinforce his status as one of the most talented and influential artists of his generation.
Polished, professional and powerful, he delivered a superb string of songs including an array of his best-known hits with Brown Eyed Girl a clear favourite with the crowd who gave him a rapturous reception which lasted long after his abrupt departure.
It was a tough act to follow but Deacon Blue managed it with a lively set, topped by their huge hit Real Gone Kid which had the Big Top dancing.
The band were clearly delighted to be back playing live after lockdown and their joy was infectious as they engaged fully with the audience.
It rounded off a super Saturday which saw the dulcet tones of Moya Brennan lead into the usual high quality setlist from Wickham favourite Seth Lakeman.
He was followed by another huge name in the music industry as Nick Lowe played a sublime solo set with his backing band unable to travel because of Covid.
Like many artists at Wickham, it was his first gig following lockdown and he confessed to being a little nervous – but you would never have known as he delighted the crowd with some huge hits.
But it was Van the Man most had come to see, making it a tough gig for some excellent artists on the Quay West Stage where Eliza Carthy and the Restitute Band were on top form along with Merry Hell on what was truly a memorable day.
