New music festival to be held in Fakenham town centre this summer

It is hoped the event will help raise Fakenham's profile, boost the local economy and provide a platform for local talent.

There will be live folk music in Fakenham Market Place on Saturday, August 19, between 12pm and 5.30pm, more upbeat music until 8pm, followed by live music at venues around the town until late.

The festival is being organsied by the community group Active Fakenham.

Active Fakenham chairman Richard Crook said: 'To my knowledge, this is the first time we've had a festival like this in the centre of Fakenham.

'Someone might come back and tell me there was one in 1873, but I've not been aware of one.

'The idea came after visiting the folk festival in King's Lynn, which had a really positive and laid back feel to it.

'There has been a lot of enthusiasm and this could be a really good event for Fakenham. 'I now need more people to come forward to help out as volunteers.'

The festival will launch of the Get Active in Fakenham Week 2017, which will see various free events held in the town, finishing with the popular Fakenham 25/50/100 cycle ride which is open to all.

Mr Crook said: 'The focus of the festival will be on local talent. I have been very impressed by the number and quality of musicians in Fakenham and nearby.'

There will be a series of smaller events over the next few months in the lead up to the festival.

These kick off with Picaroon playing at the Fakenham Bull on May 6, followed by a Blues Jam at the Gallery Bistro on June 7. Ukuleles 4 All will be in the market place and then tour some town's pubs and cafes on July 29.

On August 19 parts of the town centre will be closed to traffic and the market place will be filled with tables, chairs, straw bales and stalls.

There will be a beer tent and cream teas in the afternoon.

Mr Crook is looking for more musicians and venues interested in being involved in the festival as well as volunteers and sponsors.

Find out more by going to http://www.activefakenham.org.uk/