Newbury Spring Festival announces appointment of new chairman

Newbury Spring Festival has a new chairman.

After six years in the role, Julian Chadwick has stepped down and Graham Barker has taken over.

The Festival said it was grateful to Mr Chadwick “for the time and energy he has invested during his six years as chairman, having successfully guided the festival through an important phase, not least navigating the challenges of the Covid pandemic”.

In an announcement issued today (Tuesday), the international music festival continued: “Julian has now stood down from the Board and we are delighted to announce that Graham Barker will take on the role of Festival Chairman.”

Mr Barker, who lives near Maidenhead, is passionate about music, which has always been central to his life.

He is Vice Lord Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire and was High Sheriff of Berkshire in 2018 and is currently Master of The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars.

Mr Barker has said he is looking forward to his association with the festival and his time as chairman.

The 45th Newbury Spring Festival will run from May 11 to 25. Booking opens to Friends of the Festival from Tuesday, February 20, with public booking opening on Tuesday, March 5.

Full details of the Festival will be announced on the website early this month.