Party in the Park to go ahead in Bishop's Castle this year

Centre Stage is this year hosting Bishop's Castle's annual summer festival, Party in the Park, on Saturday, July 24.

The annual festival, which draws people from near and far to the unique town of Bishop's Castle, couldn't go ahead last due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But this year organisers have said they look forward to welcoming people back.

Abby Mathews, chairman of Centre Stage said: “We, as a committee, took over from the previous committee ‘AMP’ at a strange time last year, as it was just before the global pandemic and we were therefore unable to put Party in the Park on.

"However, I am so pleased to work alongside other members this year and put on what I can only imagine is going to be a great local festival with unlimited opportunities for everyone and anyone looking at getting involved in the arts industry and just a well needed and great family day out for all."

Abby added: “We would like to thank everyone, not forgetting all our volunteers who help make Party in the Park."

Gates will open at 12 noon, with music starting at 1pm to 10.30pm.

There will be continuous music from some talented musicians, from Shropshire and beyond, varying both in age and experience, but all with a link to what Centre Stage is about and represents, Abby said.

A couple of local bands have already been announced – Without Warning and The Mighty Vipers, alongside Call of the Kraken from Herefordshire, among others.

Bosses are hoping this will be a "well deserved" day out for all the family. There will be a bar, food vendors, vintage tea tent, stalls, workshops and much more. People are invited to bring a blanket, a picnic, the family and the dog and enjoy life the ‘Bishops Castle’ way.

Visit www.facebook.com/centrestagefb/ for more information.

Initial tickets sold online are £10 plus a booking fee, and it is possible some tickets will be sold on the day – under 11s go free.