Show DOES go on for East Garston festival, Garstonbury

READY, Freddie?

A Queen tribute act was among the artists who wowed the crowds at this year’s Garstonbury festival.

The East Garston family event, organised by another Freddie – Freddie Tulloch, owner of the village pub restaurant The Queen’s Arms – had been on a nail-biting journey due to changing coronavirus restrictions.

In the end, it was able to go ahead and more than 2,000 people enjoyed the party.

The one-day festival with overnight camping in the heart of the Lambourn Valley countryside has been selling out since 2014.

As well as the tribute to Freddie Mercury and Queen, this year’s acts included tributes to Abba, Michael Jackson, The Spice Girls and Tom Jones, as well as featuring some of the best local talent.

Pictured with The Spice Girls tribute band is actor Dominic West, who had a role in the Spice World film.

Food stalls and children’s entertainment including bouncy castles, slides, football and cricket completed the festival vibe.

Many families brought picnics and tents.

With coronavirus restrictions eased, there was just one more, unpredictable element.

But Mr Tulloch said this week: “We were so incredibly lucky with the weather. And it was just great to see people letting their hair down and enjoying themselves after being unable to do so for so long.”