West Dorset played host to the first weekend festival since the coronavirus pandemic.

Bredy Farm in Burton Bradstock successfully held BeCider Seaside 10, in what would have been the sixth year for the event and the SouthCider Festival, often referred to as the ‘little festivals that pack a big punch’.

Despite the odds, organisers worked hard to make the weekend from August 7 to 9 a success.

The farm’s application for the temporary events notice was approved, alongside its Covid-19 risk assessment, on July 31, giving organisers only a week to prepare for the event. They took the risk to ‘support the industry and give their followers something to look forward to’.

The event was held over three days and featured more than 20 bands with festivalgoers staying on site and strict measures in place to keep everyone safe, with the organisers encouraging the local authorities to visit throughout the weekend.

Around 300 people attended, and the organisers were overwhelmed by the response of not only the attendees, but also the artists, with some not having performed in front of a live audience for more than seven months.

One festivalgoer said it was ‘a totally professionally run Covid-compliant festival’.

Organisers Abi and Charlie said: “It was quite emotional at times and it meant so much to be able to offer a glimmer of light at the end of a tunnel for those who have found themselves struggling over the past few months, including ourselves.

“The event was primarily held to support the live music industry, which has suffered tremendously and is still one of the last industries to be able to start moving again post lockdown.

“It was slightly terrifying at times, but we considered all the risks and put measures in place to minimise these.”

The organisers would like to thank Ollie Titterington, Chris Hurst and Matt Bartlett for helping make the event a success.

Bredy Farm will be looking to host two more events - BeCider Seaside 11 on August 28 to 30 and SouthCider Festival 2020 from September 25 to 27 - and are seeking sponsorship to help fund them.

If you would like to get involved, email info@bredyfarm.com