ORGANISERS of MarshFest are cock-a-hoop after booking Matt Owen of Noah & the Whale and his band The Delusional Vanity Project to play at this year’s event.

MarshFest is set to return to Marshfield for the fifth time on Saturday, September 14 with two stages, a new headline act and plenty of fun for the whole family. 

Having raised £27,000 to date, this year MarshFest will feature Matt Owens and his band on the main stage, alongside Henry Ray and El Toro, Rubix Groove, Antalya, Fancy Biscuits and DJ Johnny.  

The New Music Showcase will feature up to six acts each with a 40-minute set on the new El Toro Music Stage. Designed to play primarily original material, the bands can also perform exciting takes on covers.

With a music voucher for El Toro Music and free entry to MarshFest, bands are invited to apply by sending demos to newmusic@marshfest.co.uk by Monday, July 1.  

MarshFest organisers have booked some top local bands to play at this year's event. MarshFest organisers have booked some top local bands to play at this year's event. (Image: Andy Methley)

Hugh Campbell, from the MarshFest committee, said: “Festival number five feels like a big one. Two stages will be a game changer for us, so we can make sure there’s something for everyone – from new music to popular crowd-pleasers to family entertainment.

“We’ve built on the best bits of the last few years and added even more family fun. We’re hoping to raise our best total yet this year.” 

Children take part in a tug of war at MarshFest 2022.Children take part in a tug of war at MarshFest 2022. (Image: Andy Methley)

Set up by villagers, MarshFest runs from 12.30 pm to 11pm at Broadleys, Marshfield Cricket Club’s ground. The festival features accessible toilets and dedicated changing facilities for those with additional needs. 

It will include food and drink stalls, arts and crafts, and children's activities and entertainment, including face painting.

Facepainting will be just one of the attractions at MarshFest 2024.Facepainting will be just one of the attractions at MarshFest 2024. (Image: Andy Methley)

All the profits will go to local good causes, with Marshfield Primary PTA and Warmley Park School and College set to benefit, alongside hosts, Marshfield Cricket Club. There’s also plenty of free parking available on-site.  

MarshFest attracted more than 1,000 festival goers on its last outing. Everyone is encouraged to buy e-tickets before the day to benefit from an early bird rate as prices increase on the door on the day – tickets can be bought from www.MarshFest.co.uk .