Concerts line up the big names

Wemsfest finds itself in a great place as it contemplates its 15th year next year.

Over nearly a decade and a half the organisation has put on something like 700 events – and it's got three great gigs coming up for May, says artistic director and founder Mark Ringwoodmillington(moredetailsonwww. wemsfest.com/events)

Saturdaymay11at8pmbrings Steve Wickham & Ray Coen to The Old Malthouse, Chidham.

“It’s not often a member of Thewaterboysplaysanacoustic showbutthankstoourfriendsat Grayshott Folk Club we’ve managed to snag one along with fellow Sligo musician Ray Coen. Up close and personal doesn’t get much better than this.”

Then on Tuesday, May 14 at 8 p m it’s Kathryn Roberts andseanlakeman, again at The Old Malthouse, Chidham. “Multiple-award winners they’re venturing outfromtheirdartmoorhometo deliver a show which will delight anyone who loves well-crafted contemporaryfolksongswithsuperb musical accompaniment.”

Completing the May trio of events, on Friday, May 31 at 8pm it’s The London Astrobeat Orchestraatwestbournecommunityhall.marksaid:“thisissuch a great venue with a great dance floorandseatingtoenjoyastellar line-upoflondon-basedafrican musicians who recognised the Afro-vibes running through the wonderful music created by the band Talking Heads.”

Steve Wickham & Ray Coen’s Wemsfest gig ties in with their appearance at Grayshott Folk Club, Grayshott Village Hall, Headley Road, Grayshott on Friday, May 10 at 7.30pm. Grayshott tickets from Grayshott Post Office (in person only) or from Des on 01428 60709.