Come Rain or Shine at Guilfest
It may have been one of the wettest weekends of the year so far - but that didn't stop thousands of happy-campers and day-trippers from descending into Guildford for the 2011 Guilfest.
The Source got to Guilfest and athough most of the people there had already spent the previous two night's under the stars and rain clouds... they were still smiling, with the mood a mixture of fun and anticipation for yet another day of great entertainment.
The weather continued to dominate the day and a heavy downpour in the morning made sure we all knew what to expect - so we grabbed our rain covers and umbrellas and made our way into the Guilfest arena.
Guilfest is a great local festival that has grown from year to year and pulls in thousand of people from far and wide to enjoy some of the great names in music - old and new.
The suggestions that this year the line-up was a little weak were soon cast aside amid some great new acts and seasoned favourites - putting on individual shows and group entertainment.
The musical line up went international and was complimented by the hours of fun, to be had in and around the arena.
We were delighted to discover the talents of Tensheds in the Big Cheese Cave.
But Guilfest is more than just big stars and music: -
The weekend saw a variety of comedy, street theatre and live music - coupled with food from around the world (the array of catering stands available was outstanding) - all served up in true festival style.
A specially cordoned off area for children to play away from the throng of festival goers ensured a period of calm and reassurance to any concerned parents,
with plenty of fun activities and equipment to keep even the most restless toddler amused.
The organisers were spot on in creating a family atmosphere that also made plenty of room for the older generation of festival goers; as well as the up and coming younger groups out to have some fun.
The main stage area was set in a dip that allowed for everyone to 'bank' down on the hill and oversea the stage without too much jostling for a better view.
As The Blow Monkeys got the crowd warmed up, the sun decided to join in for the first time that day; 'hat on and shining down' ready for Ziggy Marley's set in the late afternoon.
Erasure were second to James Blunt on the main stage line-up but that didn't stop a great performance from Andy Bell with his brilliant energy and ability to own the stage, while a more modest Vince Clarke kept his usual calm stage profile.
James Blunt did his best to turn even die-hard critics around with his closing set and really brought the crowd together.
As always, with many festivals, the 'facilities' come into question, especially for the ladies and after a few days of partying the public convenience may be anything but....
With a Shewee stall situated just beside the toilet area anyone with concerns would find an ingenious solution to a common problem.
As for Guilfest; the management surpassed themselves by supplying all the revellers with ample, clean and unblocked convenience.
If you haven't been to Guilfest then we suggest you pencil in a date for next year - you won't be disappointed.