Eridge Music Festival Cancelled
A HEADLINE act has pulled out of a three day musical “extravaganza” in Eridge Park, forcing organisers to cancel the event. September’s Sound Sanctuary festival has been withdrawn by Ian Hart of Hartbeat Productions because, according to organisers, 90’s band M People stepped out of the line-up. Front woman Heather Small has been asked to appear on TV show Strictly Come Dancing, and therefore had to cancel the group’s appearance.
Sound Sanctuary has announced that all customers will receive a full refund on their tickets, which varied in cost between £25 and £37.50.The news comes just a week after Britain’s Got Talent winner George Sampson was added to the line-up, which also boasted appearances from chart topping acts including the Sugababes, and Sandi Thom.
Spokesman for Sound Sanctuary Sarah Cartledge said organisers “understand” M People’s reason for not appearing, and also put the decision down to “economic factors”. She said: “Sound Sanctuary launched in a year when the UK is experiencing economic slowdown and, along with other festivals, ticket sales have been slow.” She added: “As a result of the credit crunch suppliers have been unable to extend the credit facilities that all new events rely on.
“It’s a busy year for bands and all this, coupled with the crowded music event’s market, has made it difficult for us to replace this headline act at such short notice.” Sound Sanctuary was set to open on Friday September 19, with “the biggest party in the South East for 13 to 19-year-olds”.
This was to be followed on Saturday September 20 by an afternoon of performances starting at 2pm and finishing at 10.30pm, with a total of 11 acts on show. The festival was to be wrapped up on Sunday 21 with a further 11 performers taking over the stage.
Organisers have said Sound Sanctuary “will be back next year”.
For ticket refunds, or to see updates on next year’s festival check the website.
