Marvellous news! First acts announced for Dinton festival

THE FIRST acts for next year’s Marvellous festival have been announced and they include some of the biggest names in the music business. Kind of.

Appearing at Dinton Pastures will be a host of tribute acts including Coldplay, Bob Marley, Bruno Mars, Led Zeppelin and Tina Turner.

The popular event is returning to the Hurst country park for the third time over the weekend of July 21 and 22 and organisers are promising 14 “world-class tribute acts” on its main stage, covering an eclectic mix of musical genres and eras.

One of the bands making their Marvellous debut is Oye Santana, which performs a tribute to Carlos Santana, while Legend will give a tribute to Bob Marley on the Sunday.

A spokesperson said: “Another of our most popular acts returns with their unstoppable brand of Reggae.”

A second stage will create an opportunity for some local unsigned talent to have a go at performing at a major festival, offering the chance for the next T Rex or Pink to be discovered.

And organisers are also planning to beef up its family-friendly credentials: a fairground will be on offer as well as fun activities in the Big Kids’ Village. This will include balloon modelling, arts and crafts, games and face-painting.

There will be more events and activities announced closer to the time and there will also be the chance to go glamping.

Marvellous launched in 2003.

A spokesperson said: “To this day, Marvellous remains the biggest and best. It is fiercely proud of its reputation, offering families the opportunity to experience a full-on festival atmosphere in a safe and friendly environment.”

Speaking ahead of this summer’s Marvellous festival, Cllr Norman Jorgensen, executive member for environment, sports, environmental health, leisure and libraries, said that the event has quickly become a favourite among borough residents.

“We had fantastic feedback from many people who said how great it was to have such a familyfriendly festival on their doorstep,” he said.

“I hope lots of Wokingham Borough residents thoroughly enjoy all the different music and events taking place and have lots of fun.”

Early bird tickets have gone on sale and offer discounted prices until the end of January; under fives can get in for free and there are options for day visitors and camping at Dinton.

For more, visit www.marvellousfestivals.com