THOUSANDS of music fans flocked to the Roodee this weekend for the city’s biggest music festival – Chester Rocks.
Scores of people braved the unpredictable weather to see their favourite artists perform on stage, with crowds reaching an estimated 15,000 during the two-day event.
This year it was Saturday that belonged to indie music, and the dark clouds and frequent showers didn’t put the crowds off as young and old donned wellies and rainproof jackets to catch a glimpse of bands such as Cast, Ellesmere Port band The Fallows, The View and headline act The Courteeners.
The Fifth Movement, winners of the Chester Rocks unsigned local band competition, kicked things off with their eclectic music style, followed by local lads The Suns, whose self-penned rock ’n’ roll tunes sent the crowds wild.
Performances by Sound of Guns and The Rifles were similarly well received.
Fan Jeff Bisset, who travelled from Liverpool to the festival, said the relaxed and happy atmosphere outweighed the weather.
He said: “There are some great bands playing here today, and I’m pleased with the line-up. There seems to be something for everyone.”
Fortunately for the even bigger crowds that turned out for Sunday’s performances, the rain stayed away and there were even a few glimpses of sunshine.
Chester girl-band Indigo City were first to take to the stage, followed by teenage songstress I Am Tich.
Next up was an exclusive performance from Britain’s Got Talent finalists The Loveable Rogues, with their first live show since their TV stint.
Rappers Tinchy Stryder and Labrinth sent the crowds wild, with Irish songwriter Maverick Sabre proving just as popular.
But the acts everyone was waiting to see were Katy B and Pixie Lott, and the ladies didn’t disappoint, judging by the reaction from fans.
Afterwards Chester Rocks’ official Facebook page was flooded with words of praise for the weekend, and one festival-goer wrote: “Great gig, really nice venue, nice people, good-humoured coppers – who could ask for more for less than £40? Will definitely be back!”
Emma Blackmore, director of marketing at Chester Racecourse, said she was thrilled with the turnout to this year’s festival, describing it as ‘a great success’.
“Last year it was a new event and we needed to encourage people to come and experience it first hand to gain awareness,” she said.
“This year we had that, and we were able to put on a great event.
“Our intention is to build the event year on year, but this can only be done with the support of the city and the local community.”
