THE organisers of a local live music festival, which has raised around £100,000 during its twenty year existence, have very reluctantly decided to call it a day.

The well-known Graig Aid Music Festival has been held in a field at the rear of the Three Pigeons Inn in Graigfechan, near Ruthin, for the past two decades.

But, the coronavirus pandemic has caused its cancellation this year and additionally the land it takes place on has recently been sold for development precluding its use for future events.

Over the years, hundreds of bands have played on the stage and entertained thousands over a two day period, usually in June or July of each year.

The festival became known locally as a great family event, providing not only live musical entertainment of all styles, but also additional support acts such as stilt walkers, fire eaters, magicians and even belly dancers.

The festival donated all of its profits to charity and over the twenty year period approximately £100,000 has been donated to good causes.

The three local hospices, St Kentigerns, Hope House and Nightingale house have all received large donations as well as the children’s hospice known as Zoe’s place. Cancer research, Alzheimer’s society, and many others have also benefitted.

“In the early days we really did not know what we were taking on” said Gordon Roe, one of the original organisers.

“We welded together two dilapidated trailers to form a stage, built a shelter out of scaffold poles and tarpaulins and tried to advertise the event by painting an advert on the side of a car and driving it around Ruthin. We begged and borrowed some basic sound systems and lighting and just went for it”

Peter Jones the Chairman of the organising Committee commented “Over the years we managed to progress by providing a very professional stage system with integrated lighting and a sophisticated sound system all controlled from a remote mixing desk.

“The whole festival was only possible due to the enthusiasm of the bands that performed for us at absolutely no cost. They combined with a loyal group of volunteers who carried out duties on the gate, served at the bar, manned the car park and camping field and sold tickets to the event. We owe them all a massive vote of thanks for their services over many years. Others organisations provided marquees and generators for our use again at no cost. We also managed to secure the services of WLX productions who provided the whole stage, lighting and sound systems for us at minimal expense. The people of Graigfechan also supported us before, during and after each festival and as a token of thanks we have provided a defibrillator for the use of the village, positioned on the front wall of the Pigeons.”

“Over the next few weeks we will be trying to sell our steel container which contains all the equipment to run the event and again donate the proceeds to charity. It contains two large marquees, bar, fencing, 180 chairs and lots of miscellaneous equipment suitable for events and shows. If anyone is interested in its purchase, please e mail me at : info@graigaid.com

"Finally we must thank all the people who attended our festival over the years. They have been so supportive and have been so loyal to us. We created something that we can all be so proud of which has undoubtedly done a lot of good to local charities and organisations. We will miss you all”