The wait finally came to an end when eagerly-anticipated festival Jurassic Fields returned to Bridport at the weekend.

Back for the first time since 2019, when Covid-19 put a stop to events and gatherings, the festival delivered a fun-filled weekend of music – with bigger bands than ever before.

It was sunshine, smiles and good spirits all round as crowds flocked to the sell-out event on Asker Meadows.

In the past the festival ran for two days only but, following a decision made by Dorset Council’s licensing sub-committee, the festival was able to extend to include Sunday.

Friday night brought the festival back with with a bang, with Jay Rees, We Don’t Play and Victor Vector at the Tiny Top while the Big Top welcomed Psychadelephant, Funke & The Two Tone Baby and The Undercover Hippy.

Warming up the Main Stage was The Leggomen and Rews, before an excited crowd gathered for an energetic performance from Friday night headliners The Pigeon Detectives.

Folk favourites Mad Dog Mcrea captured the Main Stage crowd on Saturday night while Dr Meaker blew the top off the Big Top.

Last but not least, Scouting For Girls brought this year’s event to a lively close.

 

The festival was a mix of old favourites – local band Shelby’s Elbows played not one but two sets after a cancellation in Saturday’s line-up – and those new to the bill, including The Undercover Hippy, Flight Brigade, Cut Capers, Funke and the Two Tone Baby, Holy Moly and the Crackers and Jimi Needles.

Naomi and Gary Hole attended Jurassic Fields along with Janet and Patrick Leatherby. They usually attend every year, saying: “It’s a brilliant event, it always is, but this year was even better across the three days – and what brilliant weather.”

Sisters Carolyn McAllister, Debbie Gale and Lisa Butchart, from Bridport, said: “It’s wonderful to be back here. The sun is shining and everyone is walking around with a smile on their face. It’s been a very long time.”

After a three-year absence and a pandemic which nobody will miss, it’s safe to say the community was brought back together again over a love of music – and the weather played a blinder, too.