A FERRET display…crazy golf…a duck race… some surprise features await visitors to tomorrow (Saturday)’s West Fest at the Playing Fields off Old Hollow.

But music fans fear not – all the regular features of West Malvern’s answer to Glastonbury will be there as usual: three stages, 15 bands playing throughout the day – plus local performers, from the West Malvern Voices to St James’s Primary School and the Chase Jazz Band. Entertainment will continue throughout the day, together with a beer tent, food stalls, arts and crafts and children's activities.

The event will open this year at the later time of 11.30am. Admission charges are adults £8, under 18s £4, under 5s free and family tickets (two adults and up to three children) £16. There are two car parks on site; inevitable traffic pressures on the approach roads (West Malvern was built before the days of motor cars!) will be kept to minimum with the help of the police. The 10pm closing time should ensure a peaceful night for nearby residents.

The not-for-profit event is made possible by the participation of a large number of volunteer helpers from within the community and the proceeds are distributed every year to local good causes. For fuller details visit the comprehensive (and entertaining!) website www.west-fest.org.uk. All that is needed now is good weather, something beyond the control of even the festival committee.

The weather at least relented last Sunday, after several days of persistent rain so that the Cricket Club’s Andy Dakin Memorial Match was able to go ahead as planned. There was a good attendance and no less than £600 was raised for the Air Ambulance and the British Heart Foundation – a tribute to the community’s respect and affection for one of West Malvern’s favourite sons.

COLIN JACKSON 01684 577604