Thousands attend Clifftop Music Fest at Highcliffe

BALMY weather attracted thousands of revellers to Highcliffe for the first Clifftop Music Fest on Saturday featuring a headline set from ’70s disco funk group Heatwave.

Masterminded by Highcliffe Action Team, the festival took place on the green adjoining the clifftop car park, near the Cliffhanger, from 11am to 7.30pm.

Featuring an array of musical genres from DJs to soul choirs and local bands, event organisers estimate that around 5,000 attended with many embracing the ’60s and ’70s fancy dress theme.

The festival headliners were 1970s funk disco group Heatwave who enjoyed international success with their popular hits Too Hot To Handle and Always & Forever. The group also brought the funk to the party with their number 2 UK and US classic hit Boogie Nights.

Visitors also enjoyed a vintage car display, a range of local shop and business stalls, fairground rides, food and refreshment stalls. Other popular musical acts included I Am Robot, Ian Roberts and the Soul to Soul choir.

The event featured three bars, but unfortunately a chill unit overheated, forcing one to close early. A shortage of lager was blamed on larger-than-expected crowds. However, the bars were able to replenish supplies and reopen later in the afternoon.

Event organiser and HAT chair Mandy Polkey, said: “We had an amazing day! Over 5,000 people came to our first event and the bands and performers were all brilliant, the social media comments of congratulations just keep on coming.

“We can’t wait to see what next year brings for Clifftop Music Fest.”

For more pictures and to buy images, visit: www.photos.iliffemedia.co.uk/p987339506