24/02/2026
Happy Tuesday all!
As you can see ... the festival organising has begun and we've had our fantastic graphics for this year come in from Laurence Crow Illustration
Bands, duos, solos etc ... we have begun getting in touch with those that filled the form in, so do check your inboxes and spam (just in case) ... There's a lot to contact though with 160+ spaces this year, so do be patient if you've not heard anything yet.
We are putting some changes in this year to see how things go, hopefully for the better.
- We have a new venue involved this year, The Greasley Miners Welfare. which we hope will motivate more to visit hilltop and the awesome venues up there, which include Tap & Growler, Pick & Davy and Greasley Castle ... so that'll be 4 venues at hilltop to wander around now.
- We've also made the decision to reduce the number of acts at most of the venues. This will mean most sets at each stage will start on the hour ... it's still pretty much 2 - 11 at everyone other than the usual alternative times at Mellors, Pick & Davy and the Museum... and OWV will still alternate inside and outside ... but there will be the usual clashfinder launched closer to the day for you to see timings.
1. this is because we have the additional venue, so won't loose out in acts.
2. It's so hopefully it makes it easier to plan your day and know when acts will be starting
3. So that there is a bigger gap between each act, meaning more time for you to get from one act to another (and to get a pint in) and more time for the acts to set up and sound check , making it easier for them and the host. Also this will allow our charity more time to speak to people between the music and spread their message.
- We will also be changing up which types of acts are at which venues. This is from general feedback from bands, audience and venues ... we just want to ensure everywhere sees a good turnout and the music is suitable for the venue type.
The stuff that works, such as the punk bands at the Three Tuns will be staying of course!.
- Finally we have chosen our charity, which we will announce soon ... I mean, it's the same one as the last two years! but they are great to work with and a great cause, so why change, and I've been informed they've got some card readers this year after feedback from the crowds, making it easier for you to contribute to their cause this year
There are other changes behind the scenes to make things better for the bands etc, but that's all boring stuff
Anyway ... I best go get organising ... more info to come soon.
