Firstly I have to say that the event was a HUGE success!

There were well over 200 people in attendance, of all age ranges. I took great pleasure in watching such a diverse group of people come together and enjoy this underused area so much.

We had 9 bands and solo artists, all under 18, playing to win a chance to perform at the Riverside Festival (Bob Cliffe, Jump the Void, Centre Excuse, Bass End, Amicus, Hannah Joyce, Adam Richardson, Tux-edo, Charlotte Redding), and all were of a very high standard. Each band / individual played 2 songs, some were covers but there was also a lot of material written by the bands, which was great to hear.

There were 3 judges, Andy Croft from The Cellar Bar, Kendal Mills from Stamford School, and Michael Houlihan who runs Voodoo Lounge at Mama Liz’s, along with a public vote.

The first prize went to Centre Excuse, who are a three piece band from Casterton Community College, Teddy Lewis (15), Jamie Rush (17) & Alex Rush (15). This was actually their first gig ever, and they did amazingly well. Second prize went to Bob Cliffe (13). He has played live on Rutland Radio, and was a finalist in Casterton’s Got Talent a few months ago.

Centre Excuse played The Buskers Stage at 3pm on Saturday and had the place packed out! People were 10 deep out the doors of the tent! It was a fantastic show, and the band really went down so well. I hope to see much more of them in the future as I am sure they have a successful career ahead of them.