Alderford Lake, the site that hosts Alderfest, was the venue for a visit by local MP, Helen Morgan. Hosted by director Rob Bebbington and business development manager Kelly Lowe, the tour focused on inflation and wage bills, as well as tourism and leisure businesses’ current state in Shropshire, with the pair backing the AIF’s call for a reduction in ticket VAT to 5%.
Bebbington said, “We absolutely love putting on the festival, but we can’t carry on if we can’t turn a profit. With so many festivals already lost from the local area, it’s imperative we do all we can to protect not only our festival but other existing and new festivals locally and nationally. A three year VAT reduction on ticket revenue as the Association of Independent Festivals are calling for would make a real difference for us.
“So many businesses are suffering from the results of the economic impact of Covid. This is people’s livelihoods, their jobs, we as a business can’t cut over costs anymore, wages have already been slashed to the bone.
“We need some help and support. All my team and I are extremely passionate about this business, something rare, I feel it is my duty to protect the team and give them the chance they deserve.”
Alderfest, which this year will feature S Club 7, Example, Scott Mills, Boyzlife and Atomic Kitten , delivers £17 for every £10 spent on tickets back into the local economy.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Alderford Lake, AlderFest offers the perfect summer family escape. This year promises an unparalleled experience for families seeking a blend of music, entertainment and outdoor activities including:
Interactive Workshops: Get hands on with AlderFest’s interactive workshops in various creative ways, including hula-hooping in circus workshops and learning to jive in dance workshops led by Pritchard School of Dance.
Make a Splash: There is plenty of fun to be had in the water at AlderFest! With a 135 person aquapark, and paddleboards available to hire, it is the perfect way to enjoy a summer’s day.
Fairground: Let the adrenaline take over and enjoy some old-fashioned fairground fun!
Pre-historic fun: Meet Zues, the GIANT 12ft T-Rex Dinosaur! Reaching dizzy heights of up to 12ft tall and a whopping 22ft in length, Zeus is sure to amaze festival-goers of all ages
Breathtaking show: The On The Edge Team will be delivering a series of shows throughout the day, with a next level team of motorcycle stunt rides, performing sensational stunts and tricks.
Leap of Faith: The incredible thrillseekers from Skydive Tilstock will be free falling INTO THE LAKE for all festival-goers to see! *Weather Permitting*.
