Let’s Rock the Moor, a retro music festival in the small Berkshire village of Cookham, celebrated its 7th year last week despite heavy rain throughout the day.
Thousands of people descended on the sodden Marsh Meadow beside the River Thames, many dressed in 1980’s attire, to listen to bands many hadn’t seen or heard since they were young.
Belinda Carlisle, Jason Donovan and Jimmy Somerville were crowd favourites, before The Human League closed the family friendly festival with a bang, belting out hits such as ‘Don’t you want me’ and ‘Fascination’.
The Human League at Let's Rock the Moor
simply amazing https://t.co/ihOYFzw1b1—
Andrea Newton (@andreanewton500) May 22, 2016
Aside from the music, those who braved the weather were treated to funfair rides, a huge assortment of food trucks serving up different cuisines and plenty of refreshments.
Andy Davis, 44, a Rock the Moor veteran who has now attended all seven of the annual events, said that this year topped them all.
“Even with the constant downpour, everyone was in such great spirits and the acts were really impressive.
“I’ve lived in Cookham now for the best part of twenty years and it’s so brilliant that people from all over the area come to enjoy Rock the Moor every year.”
Proceeds from the event are to be donated to a number of charities in the area, and local businesses, particularly pubs around the village, also benefitted greatly.
Daniel John, 22, who played with his band at the first ever show on the Moor, wasn’t put off by the rain, and is proud to be a part of such a huge legacy.
“Before Let’s Rock the Moor became as popular as it is today, I played here with my band and it is cool to say that I was a part of its history, even if it’s just a small part.”
Sinitta, Hue and Cry, Aswad, Black Box, Chesney Hawkes, Katrina, Cutting Crew and Johnny Hates Jazz made up the rest of the line up on what was another successful festival, despite the unfortunate weather.
Fun fair and gloomy skies at Let’s Rock the Moor 2016. Photo credit: Joseph Difford (author).
