Whitegate Music Festival to help support church's upkeep

Whitegate Music Festival takes place over the weekend of June 17/18 with funds raised from events going towards the ongoing maintenance of St Mary's Church in Cinder Hill.

The festival begins on the Saturday when there will be 'BBQ and Bands' on the village green (or in the hall at Whitegate CofE Primary School if the weather is wet).

From 4pm until 8.30pm, there will be music from local bands including Goosebumps, Mixology, Lostock Ukes and St Mary’s Singers.

Tickets are £10 and include strawberries and cream and some homemade shortbread. There are some chairs available, but picnic blankets and folding chairs can be brought along.

On the Sunday, conductor Stephen Threlfall will be directing the Vale Royal String Orchestra at the Great Hall in Vale Royal Abbey in a mixed programme of music.

St Mary's Church, Whitegate (Image: Google)

The programme, which features music from the pre-classical era to the 20th century, includes Intermezzo by Franz Schreker, Concerto Grosso No. 2 by William Alwyn, Pizzicato Polka, Sinfonia Concertante by Abel with soloists from the Chester Philharmonic Orchestra.

The concert concludes with Respighi’s Ancient Airs and Dances.

The William Alwyn Trust has provided a grant in support of the orchestra's performance of his Concerto Grosso No. 2. 

The Strings at the Abbey performance takes place from 7pm and tickets (adults - £15, school-age children - £7) can be bought from Andrew Ball on 07398 295239, at martonsands@gmail.com or on the door.

Tickets for BBQ and Bands must be bought in advance and are available from John Blayney on 07964 844642 or Elaine Campbell on 07896 779962.