Lifeline for Bestival

It looks like a happyish ending. Bestival and Camp Bestival may have a future, having been bought by their largest creditor, Richmond Group. Richmond had earlier had the Company behind the festival placed into Administration.

Richmond’s offer was not the only one made, but it was described as being the best by the Administrator. The offer is apparently £1.1m. This appears to be on top of the £1.8m owed by the former festival owners to Richmond.

James Benamore, of Richmond, confirmed that the new owners hope to see the festivals continue.

We have been fans and supporters of Bestival since the beginning. Our children have grown up with wonderful memories of these festivals. Bestival is an example of Dorset being world class and we are keen to ensure that this fantastic institution goes on to delight families and local businesses for many years to come.”

One of the key elements of Bestival were the owners and curators Rob and Josie da Bank. It will be interesting to see whether the new owners can bring the same flair to the festival.

24 hour flash sale on Sziget tickets

As mentioned previously, Sziget tickets will go on sale on October 1st. Organisers have a special bonus for the super early birds, with a reduced price and a free goodie bag. This offer will hold for 24 hours.

The 7 day ticket will be reduced from €339 to €289 and the 5 day ticket from €299 to €249.

The goodie bag contains merch glorious merch, exclusive Sziget designed items: beanie, gym bag, stainless steel straw, patches, pins, and stickers. Who wouldn’t want a Sziget gym bag? More importantly though, 50 quid off. Thats about 50 beers in some bars in Budapest.

Oh and in case you were hiding under a rock last week, Ed Sheeran was announced as the first of Sziget’s headliners.

More here.

Metallica confirmed for Slane

Slane owner, Lord Henry Mountcharles, has confirmed the worst kept secret of the autumn, with the announcement that Metallica will headline Slane 2019.

Launching the gig, Mountcharles pointed out that Metallica were formed in 81, the year of the first Slane. Mountcharles pointed out that his grandson Sean (6) is a Metallica fan. He claimed that this show would prove that ‘Slane’s rock and roll roots were alive and well.’

The gig will take place at the Co. Meath castle on June 8th. There will be a minimum of 5 acts, possibly 6. Ghost, currently touring with Metallica, will be one of the support acts. The opening act will be an Irish act.

Tickets for the 80,000 capacity event will go on sale on Friday