Summer music festival planned for Gilford

As well as a host of great local acts there will be a bar, hot food, on site toilets and parking facilities. Cars can be left over night and local taxis will be alerted, ensuring everybody can get home safely.

The cost of tickets is £15 per head and a £3 parking fee. There are only 500 tickets available and they are on sale now at the following points: Action Cancer Shop, Lurgan, Millennium Court Arts Centre, Portadown and Gilford Inn during opening hours.

Organiser Sarah Champ said: “Since moving to Northern Ireland five years ago I’ve been considering hosting an outdoor music event on the property around our house but I’ve never quite been bold enough to put the plan into action. However, after presenting the idea to my wonderfully patient partner Joe and my ever-reliable Southern Regional College colleagues this past year, they provided enough inspiration and enthusiasm to host three festivals! With their passion and support, I knew the time was right to take the plunge.

“The festival ethos is all about promotion for local musicians, as well as for local businesses, henceforth I am incredibly fortunate to be receiving support from a host of organisations, including The Gilford Inn, Simply Irresistible Foods and the Craigavon Council. Additionally, B2Ni will be organising all the marketing, branding and promotional activity while the proceeds from the event will be donated to Action Cancer.

“Banterquest Promotions will be responsible for booking all performers and have already confirmed Gypsy’s Wish, The Hardchargers and No Oil Paintings.”

Lucy McCusker, PR and Events officer, at Action Cancer said: “We are so excited about this event. As a local charity saving lives in the local community we are so pleased to have the support of lots of businesses from the area.”

For more information go to www.facebook.com/ourbackyardfestival or find the festival on Twitter @OBYfestival