Buckhorn Westfest Returns for Another Musical Showcase & Fundraiser

On a sunny day in late summer last year the first BuckFest, took place in Buckhorn Weston.

Like so many good ideas, it was dreamt up during a social occasion in the local pub and the trustees of the Buckhorn Weston Village Community Trust, encouraged by the ever enthusiastic Vicky Moore, decided to see how far it could be taken.

The key theme of Buckhorn WestFest, as it is now known to avoid confusion with other similarly named events, is that it is intended to be a showcase for younger musical talent in the area. It was decided that it should take place during the day and be run in a manner that was as comfortable and stress free as possible for the younger performers and audience.

It was also seen as a good way to raise money for local causes, so for both of these reasons the idea quickly took hold.

A list was drawn up of who could contribute and it soon became apparent that all the necessary skills were available and willing locally, and that local sponsors were prepared to be very generous in providing the marquee and other resources needed on the day.

Experienced guitar teacher and performer Tony Thatcher recognised the value of the day to young musicians and was more than willing to offer his help with all matters musical, including support and guidance for those taking the stage for the first time.

Buckhorn Weston Village Community Trust was originally formed in 1993. It is run by a small group of trustees dedicated to ensuring that Buckhorn Weston has a green space for villagers of all ages to enjoy and to provide a permanent site for events such as the Church fête. The Trust is also currently working on placing a defibrillator a in the village and co-ordinating first aid training for residents of our rural corner of Dorset.

It's always inspiring to see community spirit in action and this really was a great example, with so many people helping at every level, from the organising to heaving on the ropes to erect the marquee. Not forgetting the people who ran the barbecue and served the drinks, and fetched tools when necessary and took money at the gates and cleared up afterwards... the list really was endless. It was great to see how everyone involved didn't stop smiling all day and helped to create the perfect friendly atmosphere for the acts, some of whom had never played in public before.

There was some tremendous talent on stage on the day. First up were Padfoot, an acoustic duo who attend Gillingham school. They were both harmonious and melodic, whether singing or instrumentally, and their music was the perfect accompaniment to the sunny afternoon.

Next on was Phillip White who played a set of very strong material, accompanying himself with his distinctive Brian May guitar. Then Sam Hurst came on and delivered an acoustic set that was polished and professional from start to finish.

Next up was the first of the bands, Escape Default, who changed the feel of the afternoon with their own brand of heavy rock, going from well-known classics such as Superstition and Paranoid to some serious jamming by 13 year old Luke Clemenger.

The next band was Kookaburra, again from Gillingham School, who impressed not only with the quality and originality of their song writing but also with the well-rehearsed performance of their catchy numbers.

Finally, Alba took the stage and finished the day with their big songs and a confident show that I predict we will be used to seeing on bigger stages over the next few years.

It's worth noting that all of the acts have agreed to play again this year, so it must have been a good experience for them too!

Arrangements are now well underway for this year's Buckhorn WestFest to be held on Saturday 10th September, from midday until 6.00pm.

There are now other acts booked in addition to those that played last year but the organisers are very keen to hear from more performers so that they can make it bigger and even better, so do get in touch if you are interested or pass the word on.

There is a Facebook page, Buckhorn WestFest, where more details can be seen and contact can be made.

See you there!

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