The first-ever Wiltshire Throwback Festival has been hailed a ‘massive success’ as thousands flocked to Melksham for a weekend of music and family fun, featuring an all-star line-up from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s.
Major names from the worlds of music and TV delivered lively, energetic sets over two days, from 20th to 21st June.
The line-up included Bad Manners, Boney M., Tinchy Stryder, So Solid Crew, Blazin’ Squad, 911, a Dick & Dom DJ set, Fuse ODG, Artful Dodger and DJ Luck & MC Neat, among others.
“It was great for the town – everyone had a great time. I think overall it was a huge success,” said festival organiser Nico Menghini.
“Our team and the guys on the ground did such a fantastic job. We had over 100 people working in the team, and personally, a highlight for me was the camaraderie. There were no stress points.”
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“It was better than I had imagined. You panic right up until the last minute and expect everything that could go wrong to go wrong – but nothing did. Everything ran smoothly.”
On the second day of the festival, Saturday 21st June, temperatures exceeded 30 degrees, posing an extra challenge. “The heat can be so dangerous, so we made sure everyone was hydrated and handed out free bottles of water.
“People were having such a good time dancing that they weren’t really stopping to hydrate. We deployed staff to walk around handing out water and managed to rehydrate everyone in about 20 minutes.”
Following the event, residents praised the festival and organisers. One said, “It was a brilliant festival – we had the best time! The whole event was so well organised. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone dancing. Just a fantastic day all round.”
Melksham Rugby Club said, “What a great success – and amazing to bring so many people to Oakfield Stadium. Well done to all those who put so much time and effort into bringing WTF25! to life.”
Planning is already under way for WTF26! The event was organised by Jarboom Ltd, which has submitted a planning application to Wiltshire Council seeking permission to hold future live music events at Oakfield Stadium.
