Live: Ferndown 2018 blows off Barrington roof!

No one envisaged what would interrupt the final of Live:Ferndown and some might say that the music took the roof off. It was in fact a lightning strike on an air conditioning unit that allowed water to pour onto the stage and overhead lighting rig.

But that old adage, ‘the show must go on’ came into play and though the final was delayed by about 20 minutes and the acts continued without any stage lighting, the judges Matt Black, Helena Mace, Samantha Laurilla, Brian Oliver and Ben Bennett were able to deliberate and choose the prizewinners.

Matt Black said, “Of the 11 bands, duos and solo performers who earned the right to grace the stage, Bel Evans’ voice helped her land her first prize with a highly professional performance which demonstrated huge talent in many areas – including accompaniment and original music.

“Original songs were offered by the majority of the acts – which was noticed and applauded by the discerning audience.Covered tunes gave a happy balance to familiarity for the show and the styles were as diverse as the British weather – which made a bold attempt to gatecrash the evening.”

He offered solid congratulations to Dan and his team at the Barrington for safely and quickly containing the situation and saving the day – “lesser people would have given up on the evening,” Matt added.

Other prizes went to five other acts for different aspects of performing and songwriting, including an audience vote which was well-supported.

Matt said, “Consistently local live musicians, poets, and actors etc prove that TV may well have had its day, live entertainment has it all.”

The Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Cathy Lugg presented the awards as follows:

• Emma Hardy (excellence award)
• 27 Days (best band)
• Molly Poole (best vocalist)
• Tanya Miller (audience vote)
• Overall winner, 15-year-old Bel Evans

The night was organised by Steve Lugg and MC was Chrissyferkin Daines.

Prizes included studio recording time, a photo shoot, interview and air time on the radio, vocal coaching and a gig at the ‘Potato Pants’ Festival. There was a cash prize for the audience favourite.