Tower and Town, June 2024 (view the full edition)Music And A FestivalDid you know that MantonFest was not the village's first annual music event? Back in the 1970s there was a proper Hoedown where everyone dressed up in country and western outfits and headed for The Grange Barn for an evening of dancing. Music is a big part of village life, even Bergamot Close has its very own band! The village hall also plays host to many children's disco birthday parties and the school Christmas Disco is a highlight of the Winter Term. However, there is one event that brings the whole village together and that's MantonFest - amazingly 15 years young this year, with Radio Wiltshire as master of ceremonies. It began when Stuart and Tracey Whant decided to put a music-type festival in The Oddfellows beer garden (at the time The Outside Chance). It was cold, wet and windy but the music was great. Afterwards, Roger Grant asked Stuart "Why don't you put this on in a field?" His answer was "If you can do it, go ahead." The rest is history. MantonFest is continually evolving and last year saw a line-up innovation. The music commenced at 1.00 p.m. and included a young talent development slot and an impressive array of performers who wowed the audience. This year, with a noon start, this exciting idea continues... Who knows, festival goers may be the first to see the next Ed Sheeran? Stuart Whant is not only the Music Director but a bass player of the local band - Barrelhouse. Performing in the early evening, the jumping blues band always gets MantonFest up and dancing to a fantastic blend of reworked classics and their own material, whatever the weather. I caught up with Roger and Stuart to get the latest for this year and a quick look back at MantonFest history. Stuart's view as a performer is quite an eye-opener. He told me "This year, more than ever, the sound crew and the behind-the-scenes team will be working hard to keep the show rolling along whilst you relax, eat, drink and dance. They are the unsung team of volunteers and sound professionals. Literally tons of gear are lifted on and off the stage by way of the infamous and tricky stage steps. We work to a crazy time schedule all in the interests of you, the audience. Plugging and unplugging all day and night long." The lineup this year sounds just awesome. When talking to the organising Chairman, Roger Grant, he told me "This is our most ambitious MantonFest and tickets are selling well. The event is managed by a volunteer committee, supported by wonderful helpers who help set up, steward, and break down the festival. Without them we would be lost. It's amazing that we have hosted the likes of Toyah, The Animals and Friends, The Swinging Blue Jeans, Katrina of the Waves and Dr Feelgood across the years. As ever profits have been donated to good causes; this year Cancer Research is our chosen charity. My primary aim is to provide a great day out for those attending from near and far". Stuart went on to say "On a lighter note, Roger has worked his magic again this year. Headlining are The Bohemians, a world class Queen tribute act. Badness returns by popular insistence, after wowing everyone last year. Forever Elton and The Fab Four will get the whole field singing across the afternoon and evening. Jose and the Radio Tones plus The Bergamots and the development of young musicians slot will get the afternoon mood set." A big 'Thank You' to Stuart and Roger, may your festivals never be wet... Rich Pitts |