Several years ago I was asked if I would arrange a music festival to raise funds for Havens Hospices.  Our first, Aand as I thought then, only festival was held at the Hollywood Restaurant, Shipwrights Drive, Thundersley in Oct0ber 2006. Mike Goff very kindly donated the whole venue for the event.

This event, although tiring to say the least, was highly successful and showcased many young local bands along with bands already established on the music scene.  As this was the first, of course, there were a few problems along the way, but it was a useful learning curve and the lessons learnt stood us in good stead for the second event.

A cold, snowy Easter Sunday in April 2008 saw the second musicfest held at the Mill in Rayleigh. Again the management of the events centre kindly gave us the run of the place as their donation to the day.  This coupled with the PA and Lighting engineers, a fast food vendor, willing volunteers and amazing turnout of supporters gave us the opportunity to raise £3,200 on the day. This was topped up by holding a raffle, selling easter eggs, donations and a slice of the fast food takings to take the money up to £3,600, all of which went to Havens Hospices.

2011's event was a huge success once again and we benefitted hugely from being supported by the fantastic Dr Feelgood. Even though the financial climate this year hasn't been the best the event still raised £2,500 for the Hospices.

And so it goes on. the festival is gathering momentum and The Mill Arts and Events Centre have agreed to let us use their venue annually - RFHS has definitely arrived and is becoming firmly established in the music calender.  To date RFHS music festival has raised in excess of £20,000 - well done to our bands, volunteers and supporters for a great job.

So if this has whetted your appetite, read on ......

Anne Earl

Festival Organiser

 

"This event is  organised by a supporter of Havens Hospices. Any queries about this event should be directed to the organiser"