Winterfest music festival a rocking success

HUNDREDS of people packed into a music festival in Clevedon to raise money for the annual Marine Lake festival.

The Winterfest mini music festival was held at Campbell's Landing pub on Saturday and saw 17 bands take to two stages for 12 hours of non stop music.

The event was organised by the Marine Lake Enthusiasts Society (MARLENS) and raised more than £1,000 which will go to funding the festival held at Marine Lake and at the Salthouse Fields in September.

Music lovers packed it the pub to watch performances by bands including Kenisia, The Relay Rips, Poor Old Dogs, Mr Zippy, Black Moss, Footloose and The Oakies.

Getting things under way was Mustard Allegro with their unique take on Clevedon's surf sound followed by some mellower sets by Kate & Alex, Mia and Tuesday Eagle, The Herbs and Just3. 

The volume and vibe was cranked up with a flawless original rock set by Black Moss, leading to storming sets from The Mike Bullock Band and Footloose. 

The house was brought down by headliners Poor Old Dogs with an awesome performance of rock-folk including mandolin.

Marlens president, Joe Norman said: "This was a wonderful event for the people of Clevedon to start the 2013 music year. 

"The talent available in and around North Somerset is truly amazing and we thank all 17 bands, organisers and the sound engineers for their generous support. 

"The money raised is a lifeline that helps the Marlens team deliver our annual free to enter festival every year and we hope to see many more people come back for the main event in September."