Festival fun for ALL down on the farm

Over 300 festival-goers partied all day long at The Moove ‘n’ Groove Festiv-ALL in support of those who have learning disabilities and autism.

Organiser, Andy Uglow who works with support group SPACE, said: “I was blown away by the response and the how everyone - the festival-goers, volunteers and stallholders - just had a complete ball. The idea was to offer a safe environment where families, children and adults who have learning disabilities and autism could enjoy live music and inter-active activities. We wanted to create an all-inclusive event – and I believe we achieved that.”

The festival was run by a team of volunteers and supporters from local caring organisations including SPACE, LifeWorks, Mencap, ROC, Aspects, Sound Communities CIC, Hollacombe Community Resource Centre and Torbay Communities, in conjunction with Rotarians from Torbay Sunrise and Tormohun Rotary clubs.

A lively Zumba warm-up kicked off the proceedings followed by some hot sounds courtesy of Rock the Crowd DJ. Then live performances proceeded right through the day until 9pm with the Two Pint Pasty Club launching the party, followed by professional acts from Bass Beatz Productions.

Andy added: “We were delighted to have the Samba ROC Band perform and we even had the famous therapy pony, Patrick, who was the main attraction in our ‘quiet area’. However, I think everyone was stunned by the finale when the award-winning performer Rhys’ Pieces left us awe-struck by his amazing light show and fire-eating act. He proved that having a learning disability or autism is no barrier to reaching your goals or ambitions.”

A 'village' of stallholders completed the event offering hair-braiding, face-painting, crafts, food and drink.

The success of the festival means that plans are already being made for next year’s event.
Andy said: “I have to say a huge thank you to our host Rotarian Alan Dommett at Culvertor Farm who made the event possible."

If anyone would like to become involved or offer support to this event, more details can be found by visiting the Facebook page at Moove & Groove Music Festival.