Making music for the lifeboat

The two day event features a top line-up of local talent and has become something of an institution on the Hastings calendar.

As well as raising vital funds for the Hastings RNLI, the beach concert will also raise money for the Sea Cadets and Pett Level Rescue.

As always it launches the start of Old Town Carnival Week on Saturday August 1 and Sunday 2.

Top of the bill this year is the popular Blues Brothers Show. Other bands and artists playing include Sam Calver, Doctor Savage and The Cajun Dawgs.

This year sees a first as the concert moves from the beach itself to a new home on the Stade Open Space, next to the Jerwood.

Although being wound up after last year a few local traders and residents decided it was just too good an event to loose and have got together under the umbrella of High Street Traders to turn things around and keep the concert going.

Jackie Pratt, who is helping to organise the event, said: “A slight change this year is that it is being held on The Stade Open Space as the area of beach that has traditionally been used is occupied by the contractors who are resurfacing the Winch Road.

“ However, this has meant that a professional stage can be used for the first time and it gives the opportunity to create a festival site with some astroturf to sit on and a level surface so some seating can also be provided.

“There won’t be enough to go round so why not bring along a rug or your own deckchairs to sit on so you can grab a spot and make yourselves comfy for the afternoon.

“The times are Saturday 2pm to 8pm and Sunday 2pm to 7pm with the gates being open from 1pm. A BBQ and licenced bar , courtesy of The FILO pub and brewery are provided on site, with all profits from these going to the charities. For safety reasons neither alcohol or dogs can be brought on to the site.

“It is a free event for charity. There will be collections on site and around the town all over the weekend so please give generously to the collectors wearing the official yellow t-shirts.

“Commemorative t-shirts are once again available this year for £9.95 and are on sale now from Cobblers to the Old Town, The Jenny Lind and The Hastings Arms.”

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