Country & Western just got bigger!

 

The Welshpool Country & Western Festival will become a weekend affair for the first time from July 15-17 and over 150 caravans have already pre-booked for what promises to be one of the event’s biggest editions yet.

 

And while cowboys and cowgirls will travel to Welshpool from the length and breadth of Britain to attend, organisers say that its role in supporting the Heulwen Trust is crucial.

 

“This is a very important event for the Trust as it is our major fundraiser,” said event spokesperson Dennis Duggan. “Investment income is down but running costs are rising all the time.”

 

The Heulwen Trust was formed in 1985 to bring enjoyment and pleasure to people with disabilities by providing trips along the Montgomery Canal. The trips are free of charge and tens of thousands of people have been able to take advantage of the Trust’s facilities.

 

But with annual costs rising beyond £40,000 per year to run the boats, the pressure is on to deliver a bigger and better Country & Western Music Festival.

 

“We have a new promoter who has some new ideas and suggestions so hopefully we will raise more money,” said Dennis. “We hope the extra work will pay off! Many people come for the weekend anyway, so they will have something to see and do from Friday afternoon through to Monday morning.

“There is an excellent line up of artistes, but as well as the music there is a lot of entertainment which creates a great family atmosphere. All the music is Country & Western and many people dress in western costume to get into the spirit of things.”

 

The event is held on Powis Castle grounds and while income has varied each year due to the weather, overall Dennis estimates it has raised around £300,000 for the Trust.

 

“The Trust is a charity so none of the committee makes any money from the festival, it all goes to the Trust,” he confirmed. “We have a dedicated committee that has worked on this event for many years but we always welcome more volunteers who can contact David Corfield on 07885 484228.”