Big Swindon festival takes a break until 2004

The Wiltshire Festival which usually takes place on the August Bank Holiday weekend at Lydiard Country Park, Swindon is being postponed until August 2004.

The decision was taken following the withdrawal of promoter, Eddie Sharpe of Heaven On Earth Promotions Ltd late in 2002, which left new promoters Aurora Promotions Ltd and organisers TAO Productions short of time to secure sponsorship and suitable headline artists for this yearšs event.

A spokesmand for Aurora Promotions - the new promoter of the event in 2004 said, "Aurora Promotions will be teaming up with TAO Productions, the previous Wiltshire Festival organiser, to ensure that the Festival returns stronger than ever in 2004. Everyone wants to see the event continue and that's demonstrated by the continued support of sponsors including Swindon Borough Council and GWR fm."

TAO Production ­ organisers of the festival over the last 10 years on behalf of Eddie Sharpe said, " I am pleased that Aurora Promotions are supporting the continuance of the event and that the sponsors are demonstrating their commitment.Having a year off will allow for the festival to continue better than ever "

Councillor Fionuala Foley, lead member for Swindon Services at the Borough Council said, "we are very sorry to hear that the promoters are not going to be able to stage the music festival at Lydiard Park this summer after all. We have been through a number of discussions - all to no avail. However, I do hope that the promoters can bring the festival back very soon."