LOCAL bands are set to relive the heady days of the 70s and 80s in a Malvern music festival this summer.

A town fund-raiser is planning a free music festival to be held on the Link Common, which he hopes will be as successful as the events in years gone by.

It is the latest venture from Andy Mapp, of Bank Street, who was inspired to put it on by memories of the ‘80s rock events.

Mr Mapp has staged a number of Mapp-fest events in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice in recent years.

He started off with private fundraising events at his home, but last year he branched out with two festivals at the Re-Con music venue in Church Street, one of them over three days.

Now he has been given permission by Malvern Hills Conservators, which owns the land, to hold the festival on Saturday, June 21, from noon to 10pm.

He said: “Lots of people remember the festivals in the 1980s, and I just thought it would be a good idea to have something like that again.

“I’m planning two stages, an acoustic stage and an electric stage, and there should be about 15 groups or artists in the line-up, when I get it finalised.

“Entry will be free, but we will be encouraging people to make donations to Acorns to show their appreciation, and takings from the barbecue will also be donated.

“The musicians will all be giving their services for free.

“I’m very grateful to the Conservators for allowing me to stage this festival.”

The Conservators’ board agreed to allow the festival, subject to conditions, including the posting of a bond to cover any damage to the common.

Board chairman Helen Stace said: “The organiser must provide assurances that the correct music and alcohol licences have been provided, and he must also provide stewarding and inform police and neighbours about the event.”

Director Steve Bound said Mr Mapp had assured him that Acorns is able to provide portable toilets for the event.

lDo you have any memories or pictures of the festivals on the common in the ‘80s. Call Robert Hale on 01905 742283 or e-mail rh@ malverngazette.co.uk